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School and job skills for young parents

The Learning, Earning and Parenting (LEAP) Program helps young parents who are receiving social assistance:

  • Finish high school
  • Develop parenting skills that promote healthy child development
  • Develop employment related skills to get a job and become financially independent

Eligibility

To be eligible for this program, you must:

  • Be a parent 25 years of age or younger
  • Be receiving social assistance (Ontario Works or Ontario Disability Support)
  • Have not completed high school

This program is:

  • Mandatory for parents 16 to 17 years of age
  • Voluntary for parents 18 to 25 years of age

Benefits

Colourful pens, pencils and paper on a pink background

Supports

We'll cover part or all expenses related to:

  • Educational trips
  • Employment
  • Graduation fees
  • Recreational activity fees
  • School supplies and clothing
  • Transportation
Children playing with building blocks at a day care centre with a caregiver clapping in the background

Free child care

We support children from birth to 12 years of age and their families by providing a range of services across Niagara, including supports for children with special needs.

A single appointment with a casemanager will determine your eligibility for both Ontario Works and placement in a subsidized licensed child care space while participating in activities.

Coin being put into a piggy bank

Cash incentive

Each participant will get $500 when they complete secondary school and at least 35 hours of approved parenting activities.

This incentive is an investment towards further education and training for either the parent or the child.

How to apply

If you're on Ontario Works or Ontario Disability Support, contact your casemanager, or call Social Assistance and Employment Opportunities at 905-641-9960 ext. 6028 (1-866-627-1110 for West Niagara).