Not-for-profit organizations and municipalities in Ontario will soon be able to access funding to create a more welcoming environment for international agri-food workers who work in the province’s agri-food sector.
The Government of Ontario has announced $1.5 million for the international agri-food workers (IAW) Welcoming Communities Initiative, funded through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a federal/provincial shared program. The intake will be open from October 8, 2024 to November 19, 2024.
The funding has been allocated to support the initiative over four years and intended to provide IAWs with stronger supports during their stay in Ontario. These include translation supports, expanding or introducing transportation services, and supporting cultural and recreational activities.
Successful applicants of the initiative can receive up to 75 per cent in cost-share funding per application, up to a maximum of $100,000 with applications demonstrating financial need possibly being eligible for a higher level of cost-share funding.
The IAW Welcoming Communities Initiative builds on the Virtual Welcome Centre, which is a webpage of resources available in multiple languages detailing information about worker rights and responsibilities, adjusting to life in the province, and living and working safely in the community.
“It’s vitally important that our international agri-food workers have access to support and services while they’re in Canada,” says Lawrence MacAulay, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. “This program will make a real difference in their lives, helping them feel more connected and supported while they contribute so much to our agricultural sector.”
Eligible organizations and municipalities can apply to implement activities and project collaborations with other organizations (e.g. faith-based, for-profit, community health centres, etc.) that support the attraction and retention of IAWs, improve their access to community services, and promote their independence.
Details about the IAW Welcoming Communities Initiative and the application process are available on the Province of Ontario’s website.
