FSJ to see $18.6M investment in employment services expansion

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The province says it will be investing more than $18 million to expand employment services, including in Fort St. John. 

According to a press release by the Government of British Columbia, the province, with the support of the Canada-B.C. Workforce Development Agreement, is investing $18.6 million over two years to expand Community-Based Employment Services (CBES). 

This is expected to help as many as 2,680 people, according to the press release. 

The release said that people facing “complex barriers” will have access to personalized and community-based employment opportunities. 

The expansion includes 16 additional communities throughout B.C., including Fort St. John, Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Prince Rupert and Williams Lake. 

This program is part of B.C.’s Poverty Reduction Strategy, which is focused on coordinated action from the government to improve affordability, strengthen income supports and create pathways out of poverty through employment and skills training. 

Sheila Malcolmson, the provincial minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction, said: “People say they feel better and are better off when they have a job and community connections.” 

“That is why we’re reducing barriers for those who can work, while continuing to support those who cannot. Today, we are expanding Community-Based Employment Services to reach more people across B.C. on their path to work.”

The services use outreach and flexible timelines that will help people gain stability, confidence and take steps to secure a job. 

CBES, launched in 2024 through a pilot program, is delivered through trusted local organizations that use trauma-informed and culturally safe approaches. 

Patty Hajdu, the federal minister of Jobs and Families, said no worker will be left behind “in the face of ongoing external pressures affecting key sectors.” 

“By partnering with British Columbia and working alongside local organizations, we are creating inclusive pathways to employment across the country that will empower those facing complex barriers and ensure they receive the tailored support they need to succeed,” she added.  

“This will build a robust economy that provides career opportunities to all Canadians, across generations.”

To access the Community-Based Employment Services in Fort St. John, click here.