‘They give up’: Cambridge council passes motion to explore Youth Employment Program
Posted Dec 23, 2025 01:22:02 PM.
Last Updated Dec 23, 2025 01:22:07 PM.
A Cambridge councillor is celebrating a small victory when it comes to helping young people in that city to try and get a job.
During a Cambridge council meeting on December 15, Ward 7 councillor Scott Hamilton proposed a motion to have staff look into a new Youth Employment Program. Ward 4 councillor Ross Earnshaw seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Speaking on the Mike Farwell Show on December 18, Hamilton said he has sat on the Youth Advisory Committee for the last four years and is hearing concerns from young people on finding a job.
“We’re hearing increased levels of hopelessness amongst youth,” said Hamilton. “Anxiety, stress, frustration and also increasing isolation because when they send resume after resume out there and are not getting a response. The reality is they turn inwards and they give up.”
As of November, youth unemployment across the country was at 12.8 per cent, down from a high of 14.7 per cent in September, according to Stats Canada. Hamilton noted that the unemployment rate in Waterloo Region is 21.4 per cent up, three points from last year. The overall unemployment rate for Waterloo Region in November came in at 7.8 per cent.
Hamilton said the program could help educate young people how to apply for jobs, as well as teach them skills including how to write a resume and cover letter, while learning about employment trends, technologies and job opportunities.
“Youth in our city are just not sure where to go, they’re not sure where to start, they’re not sure where to start approaching people for advice, how to apply and how to proceed and develop a career,” said Hamilton.
“The problem is only getting worse in our community.”
The program would also work with local BIAs and the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce, and advertise more part-time and full-time positions with the city.
Staff will report back to council in early 2026.
