The Landing Place: new low-barrier job support in Fort St. John

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — A new employment support service has launched in Fort St. John aimed at individuals experiencing “complex barriers” to employment. 

The Landing Place provides “individualized, trauma-informed supports” to people who are experiencing unstable housing, mental health and substance use challenges, according to a statement from Employment Connections North (ECNC). 

Fort St. John was one of 22 communities in British Columbia chosen to offer the Community-Based Employment Services (CBES) program, ECNC said in a press release. 

In April, the province said it would invest more than $18 million over two years to expand CBES in British Columbia, including in Fort St. John. 

CBES works to support those experiencing complex barriers by improving access to employment services and helping them connect more effectively with their communities, the release said. 

The ECNC website refers to CBES as a “voluntary, low-barrier program for adults in Fort St. John who are facing challenges that can make employment difficult right now.” 

Those who are 18 years or older, legally eligible to work in Canada and experiencing housing instability, substance use or mental health challenges may be eligible for the program. 

“People say they feel better and are better off when they have a job and community connections,” said Sheila Malcomson, Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. “That is why we’re reducing barriers for those who can work, while continuing to support those who cannot.”

Malcomson said community-based employment services in Fort St. John are expanding to help reach more people across the province “on their path to work.” 

According to ECNC, CBES is provided by the Landing Place through “flexible, trauma-informed and culturally safe relationship-based supports.” 

Services offered by the program include community outreach and engagement, support in accessing housing, healthcare and income assistance. 

Participants can also access individualized coaching, skill development, training and work experience opportunities. 

“Employment readiness looks different for each individual,” said Anne McMenamin, ECNC Client Services Manager. “The Landing Place is designed to provide flexible supports that help people build stability and take steps toward their employment goals.” 

Those who attend the program can expect “flexible and no-pressure support,” one-on-one, group, drop-in and outreach options.  

Attendees can also access life skills assistance, employment readiness, steps towards work or training, culturally and peer-supported, responsive spaces and connections to health, housing, community and employment supports. 

ECNC said the program is integrated with the WorkBC system under the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction and that it aligns with the province’s poverty reduction strategy, which aims to reduce overall poverty by 60 per cent by 2034. 

For more information on the Landing Place, visit the ECNC website or call 250-784-0024.