The new year is usually a time to take stock and perhaps consider new directions. At Goodwill Amity, we actually help people start fresh year-round by supporting individuals in entering or re-entering the workforce.

We’ve been intentional about responding to the challenges job seekers and employers are facing during COVID. We’ve launched new programs – such as our food and beverage manufacturing program – to upskill job seekers and fill essential employers’ workforce needs. We’ve also introduced mental health supports in some of our programs to assist participants in the transition to work.

So far this year we have served 770 new clients, helped 286 secure employment, and supported a further 40 people in entering education or skills training.

Black History Month is a reminder that we need to do more to build an inclusive and equitable society, to celebrate the contributions of Black Canadians, and to educate ourselves about the lived experience of Black Canadians. The Ontario Black History Society has educational resources that bring important stories to light.

Are you looking for a job? Please join our March virtual job fairs: Hamilton’s is scheduled for March 9th from 9:00 to noon and Halton’s is happening on March 30th from 10:00 to 2:00. More information and registration details are here:

We are always looking to improve access to our facilities and services so we were thrilled to receive an Enabling Accessibility Fund grant from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) which has allowed us to install automatic door openers, have areas painted in contrasting colours to increase visibility, and connect visual alarms. These changes make our Career Centres more accessible to clients with disabilities.

Our catering division, Stairways, has been providing meals to those in need. At this point in the pandemic we have provided over 52,000 lunches and dinners.

Our Hamilton Mountain Career Centre had a holiday gift exchange in December. They drew names and purchased a new toy that reminded them of their colleague recipient. After the exchange all toys were donated to CityKidz.

In partnership with Food For Life, we are piloting Good Food Fridges in our two Hamilton Career Centres – at 225 King William and 1050 Upper Gage. Anyone can come and take food from a variety of fresh items that are replenished each week.

Initiated by Christopher, a college student who works at our Burlington store and who was moved by a survivor’s story of human trafficking, we provided 60 boxes, or 520 pounds, of clothing to two women’s shelters in Halton over the holiday season.

When you give to Goodwill Amity you are changing lives and strengthening communities.

This approach to service makes it possible for people to transform their lives and their communities.