MP Keddy is shown with Employment Solutions Society (ESS) clients, board and staff, along with Shane Demmings, General Manager of Giant Tiger - an employer of Employment Solutions Society clients. Shown from left to right are: Linda Blumenthal, ESS Client, Tammy Kelly, ESS Client, MP Gerald Keddy, Shane Demmings, General Manager, Giant Tiger, Dawn Huskins-Townsend, Chair of the ESS Board of Directors, and Margaret Matthews, ESS Executive Director.


Bridgewater, Nova Scotia, January 9, 2012—The Government of Canada is helping people with disabilities in Bridgewater develop the skills and experience they need to find jobs.

Gerald Keddy, Member of Parliament for South Shore–St. Margaret’s, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, today announced that the Employment Solutions Society will receive more than $144,000 through the Government’s Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities.

“Our government’s top priority is jobs and the economy.  We know that in a constantly evolving labour market, it’s important that Canadians get the skills and training they need to succeed,” said Mr. Keddy.  “By supporting this project, our government is helping Canadians with disabilities maximize their potential and independence.”

“Employment Solutions Society has been working with individuals with disabilities for the last 17 years as a Community Coordinator, assisting clients with funding to find employment within Lunenburg and Queens Counties,” said Margaret Matthews, Executive Director of Employment Solutions Society.  “This past year, we have expanded our programs to work with clients with disabilities in the Windsor and Hants County regions. Funding will assist clients in both regions gain skills and employment.”

With assistance from the federal Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities, the Employment Solutions Society will help 25 people with disabilities develop their work skills so they can participate in the job market or return to school.