Strong Women Mean a Strong Canada: Guergis

WINNIPEG, Feb. 4 /CNW Telbec/ - The Government of Canada is supporting new projects that will help to improve the lives of women and their families across Manitoba, the Honourable Helena Guergis, Minister of State (Status of Women), announced today.

"A healthy economy remains our government's top priority," Minister Guergis said. "All Canadians benefit when women are economically secure, physically safe and showing leadership across the country. That's why our Government is investing in Manitoba organizations that work to advance women's and girls' economic security, to put an end to violence against Aboriginal women and girls, and to encourage women's leadership."

The following three organizations are receiving a total of $564,728 through the Women's Community Fund grants of Status of Women Canada:

-  $174,000 to Ka Ni Kanichihk Inc. for its project, Aboriginal Women and
       Youth - Reclaiming Our Power;
    -  $135,000 to the Women's Enterprise Centre of Manitoba for its "WEC-
       Tech" Project; and
    -  $255,728 to the West Central Women's Resource Centre for its project,
       Cultivating Holistic Community Leadership.

"Over the past year, our Government has listened to the concerns of groups and individuals across the country," said Minister Guergis. "As a result of these consultations, we have delivered funding for a national shelter network, supported the introduction of a bill to address human trafficking and helped to support community programs."

"Women entrepreneurs face many barriers and challenges in expanding their business," said Ms. Barb Gamey, Chair of the Women's Enterprise Centre of Manitoba. "Our 24-month project addresses the priority issue of improving the economic security and prosperity of women by increasing women entrepreneurs' knowledge and use of the technological tools that will help them move their businesses to the next level."

Support for all of the above projects comes from funding that is allocated to the Women's Community Fund by the Government of Canada. To qualify for funding, each project must work to promote the full participation of women in the economic, social and democratic life of Canada.

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For news releases and information on Status of Women Canada, go to www.swc-cfc.gc.ca.

For further information: Emily Goucher, Senior Special Assistant, Communications, Office of the Minister of State (Status of Women), [phone]; Nanci-Jean Waugh, Director General, Communications and Strategic Planning, Status of Women Canada, [phone]