Nanaimo-Cowichan’s Doug Routley and other New Democrat MLAs Sheila Malcolmson and Adam Walker say people in the Cowichan Valley, Nanaimo and Oceanside will have more opportunities to improve their literacy, math and digital skills thanks to increased funding for Community Adult Literacy Programs.
“Whether it’s math, ESL, computer or other training, these programs go a long way to set people up to navigate their day to day lives effectively,” said Doug Routley, MLA for Nanaimo-North Cowichan. “I am grateful for all of the people that help run these programs and make our communities a more welcoming place to live.”
“Literacy Central Vancouver Island’s volunteers and staff help people everyday, whether it’s managing finances, reading and writing, or applying for jobs,” said Sheila Malcolmson, MLA for Nanaimo. “I’m happy we can support local groups that help people, to build up a caring Nanaimo.”
“The tutors at the Career Centre make a big difference in the lives of people across Oceanside by helping them improve their skills in literacy, math, computers, and other areas,” added Adam Walker, MLA for Parksville-Qualicum. “When it comes to succeeding in today’s world, everyone deserves to have a fair chance and this investment will help with this goal.”
The following organizations in the region are receiving funding for their community adult literacy programs:
* CVIJOBS – The Career Centre (Parksville, Coombs, Qualicum Beach, Errington, Bowser, Nanoose Bay)
* Literacy Central Vancouver Island (Central Vancouver Island Region from Ladysmith to Parksville, including Gabriola and Snaw-Naw-As First Nation)
* Literacy Now Cowichan (Cowichan Valley)
* Malahat Nation (Malahat Nation and Mill Bay)
These community-based programs are offered by trained volunteers and focus on basic literacy, numeracy, life skills and employment preparation, and can be a starting point towards high school completion and/or further education or training.
The New Democrat government invests $3.4 million annually for Community Adult Literacy Programs, as part of a commitment to giving people the skills and opportunities they need to succeed.