Food bank launches employment training program for newcomers
Posted Jul 10, 2025 04:32:52 AM.
Last Updated Jul 10, 2025 11:31:02 AM.
The Food Bank of Waterloo Region is supporting newcomers to Waterloo Region in a unique way.
The first of seven cohorts started a new employment initiative at the local organization aimed at providing hands-on training and work experience to help their transition into the local workforce.
It’s called the Newcomer Work Experience Program, and is a paid initiative, with each session running four-weeks at a time.
“We believe in empowering newcomers by helping them build their skills and confidence—so they can contribute to the Canadian economy and help fill critical labour gaps in Waterloo region by strengthening the workforce where support is needed most,” said Kim Wilhelm, CEO at The Food Bank of Waterloo Region.
The Region of Waterloo is putting forward the funds for the program, with support from the Immigration Partnership.
“Newcomers face unique barriers to employment, and programs like this are critical in helping them build the confidence, experience, and skills they need to thrive,” added Ian McLean, chair of the Work Steering Group, Immigration Partnership.
Some areas of focus include training in health and safety, food safety, order picking, and driver assistance.
Based at the The Food Bank’s distribution centre in Kitchener, the program will support over 40 people by May 2026.
