Sheridan Neighbourhood Family Program
Sheridan Neighbourhood Family Program
Polycultural Immigrant and Community Services has recognized a growing need for helping people start up their own businesses as well as assisting clients in finding employment. At the same time there is a need for a community centre as none of the existing community centres are accessible for residents. We believe that both elements are key in poverty reduction in the Sheridan-Clarkson area. Our target population is families living in the Sheridan-Clarkson neighbourhood which is considered a high need and priority neighbourhood.
Sheridan Neighbourhood Family Program consists of three components that correspond to the age groups of the residents.
Adult Component
The goal of the program is poverty reduction through employment and/or self-employment. Participants will be involved in a 12-week session groups run on Saturdays. 4 cycles are run per year. Clients learn about topics such as creating business plans, registering a small business, keeping taxation records, bank loans, as well as how to dress for a job interview, interview skills, resume writing and where to look for work. An emphasis is given to learn Business English – how to communicate in a business world (writing emails, memos, business letters).
Information about retraining and educational programs is also provided. A component was added to the program with the arrival of new refugee families. The “Canadian Spectrum” concept introduces adults to Canadian history, culture, socio-political systems, and rights and responsibilities of citizenship. This component will enrich the employment portion of the program by adding a deeper level of understanding between Canadian born community members and newly arrived ones, and a more in-depth introduction to Canadian workplace culture and etiquette.
Children Component
In cooperation with Visual Arts Mississauga, art classes are offered to children whose parent(s) are attending the employment program. Fitness for children sessions are alternating with the art classes.
Youth Component
Youth component is delivered by a partner, Global 180, and includes youth leadership sessions, weekly after school drop-in program and other activities including movie nights and girls events.
Eligibility criteria: Open eligibility, local residents of Sheridan/Clarkson neighbourhood.
Funding source: United Way Greater Toronto; No fees are charged from clients for services provided.
Location: Mississauga
