Ontario Giving a Second Chance to People with Criminal Records

April 26, 2023

More than one million people in Ontario live with a criminal record, which can decrease the chances of a second interview by 50 per cent and drastically increases the likelihood of long-term poverty.

This government believes in the power of second chances and Ontario is urging business leaders to join us in supporting second-chance hiring.

That is why we are investing $12 million to support nine innovative projects designed to help 2,000 people leaving the justice system or with prior criminal records find meaningful jobs with local businesses.

This funding supports a number of projects that will prepare jobseekers for well-paying careers in construction, manufacturing, hospitality, food and beverage processing, and other industries.

Projects will provide a range of employment and training needs to help with a smooth transition to the job market, including apprenticeship and technical training, on-the-job learning, and improving job readiness and interview skills. They will also include wrap-around supports like mentorship, job placement and mental health supports.

Through its first two funding rounds, our Skills Development Fund has supported 388 projects aiming to help nearly 400,000 people around the province take the next step in their careers.

Learn more: https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1002977/ontario-creating-safer-communities-through-second-chance-hiring