New equipment improves product quality, increases production, and creates inclusive employment opportunities
Building a strong and inclusive economy means ensuring underrepresented groups have equitable job and skills development opportunities. When people work together to break down barriers to employment, the entire community benefits.
Serving up fresh goods and inclusive employment
Today, the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Member of Parliament for Halifax West, announced a non-repayable investment of $172,000 to MetroWorks Employment Association (MetroWorks) for its social enterprise, Stone Hearth Bakery. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA.
With this funding, Stone Hearth Bakery purchased and installed new commercial ovens, a proofer and a range hood to replace aging equipment in its main kitchen. The bakery also improved its fire suppression system and installed a higher capacity gas line. These upgrades allow the community bakery to operate at increased capacity, providing more opportunities to train and employ people from underrepresented groups.
With improvements to the facility, Stone Hearth Bakery has significantly increased business with existing clients and gained several new clients. It has also improved the quality of products, and created more opportunities for those facing employment barriers.
Today's announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to help communities use their local strengths to create a stronger and more inclusive Atlantic Canadian economy.
