We're excited to announce the extension of the Alberta Foodservice Labour Connections program! The program, introduced in 2014, aims to connect individuals who face employment challenges with meaningful and rewarding jobs. The pilot program has placed 88 individuals in foodservice-related jobs over the last year and is funded by the Ministry of Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour in collaboration with us here at Restaurants Canada.

 "The Alberta Foodservice Labour Connections pilot is an excellent example of how innovative thinking can help support vulnerable members of our community when they are looking for good and stable jobs,” says Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour Minister Lori Sigurdson. “Our government is committed to ensuring all Albertans have access to a safe and fair workplace where they can prosper and succeed. We are encouraged to see this program extended into 2016 and support not only people as they find good jobs, but also help businesses meet their labour demands."

One such example is Hakim McLaren, who has cerebral palsy and a hearing impairment. Hakim was recently hired by Dairy Queen franchisee Michael Liber, who customizes roles so that employees like Hakim can be successful.

Hakim McLaren and Dairy Queen Franchisee Michael Liber

“A high percentage of the participants are taking the life-changing step of landing their first job,” says Mark von Schellwitz, Restaurants Canada Vice President, Western Canada. “And, the program is helping restaurants deal with long-term labour shortage issues. But the real win here has been the wealth of success stories.” 

Restaurants Canada is proud to be a part of a program that allows disadvantaged individuals a chance to build a rewarding career in a restaurant or foodservice business.  Facilitating a program such as this by connecting Edmonton-area Restaurants Canada members with employment service agencies will help generate jobs.

View the original press release here.