What is the LEAP Program?
What is the LEAP Program?
Who is LEAP for?
When is LEAP a viable employment activity?
Where is more information about LEAP available?
How does the LEAP program benefit participants?
Why does the LEAP program exist?
What is the LEAP Program?
LEAP, which stands for learning, earning, and parenting, falls under Basic Education and Literacy Training as one of the Partners for Jobs employment activities. It is specifically designed to meet the needs of young parents on social assistance. LEAP provides help to finish high school, gain work experience, and learn more about parenting.
Who is LEAP for?
LEAP is mandatory for 16- and 17-year-old parents on Ontario Works who have not completed high school. Eligible single parents and couples aged 18 to 25 who have not completed high school are encouraged to participate.
Community partners can support the LEAP program by offering non-paid and paid employment placements to participants to help them gain work experience and on-the-job training.
When is LEAP a viable employment activity?
LEAP provides young parents with additional financial and emotional supports to overcome barriers to school attendance and to learn more about parenting. LEAP can help participants:
- Finish high school
- Develop employment skills
- Plan for the future
- Get ideas and support
- Learn more about child development
Where is more information about LEAP available?
Young parents on Ontario Works can find out more about LEAP from their Case Coordinators.
How does the LEAP program benefit participants?
As well as gaining education and experience, LEAP participants receive many benefits including financial assistance with:
- Housing
- Childcare
- Transportation
- School or training supplies
Additional LEAP Benefits:
Upon completion of high school and an approved parenting program, participants receive a $500 bursary to be put towards their post secondary education or their child's Education Savings Plan.
Why does the LEAP program exist?
LEAP was created to help young parents take good care of their children and themselves. LEAP participants learn to be self-reliant. Completing grade 12 is a positive step towards finding and keeping a job. It also serves as an excellent example about the importance of education to the children of LEAP participants.
For more information, please call the Partners for Jobs information line at 613-560-6000.
