The Learning Earning And Parenting program (L.E.A.P.) is designed to assist young parents to complete High School, achieve economic independence, develop sound parenting skills, foster healthy child development, and give children of young parents a better start in life.

 

Parents aged 16 & 17 who are in receipt of Ontario Works financial assistance, or who are part of a Benefit Unit receiving financial assistance under Ontario Works, and who have not completed high school, must take part in L.E.A.P..

 

Parents aged 18 to 25 who are in receipt of Ontario Works financial assistance, or who are part of a benefit unit receiving financial assistance under Ontario Works, or who are receiving financial assistance for their children under Ontario Works, and who have not completed high school, may take part in L.E.A.P..

 

The Objectives of L.E.A.P. are:

Learning

To assist young parents achieve high school graduation through traditional and non-institutional educational facilities.

 

Earning

To access employment readiness and develop a individual customized plan for the future.  Plans may include participation in co-op programs, part-time and summer employment as well as youth apprenticeship programs.  Job readiness is assisted with resume writing and interview skills development.

 

Parenting

Parenting activities will promote children’s growth and development by supporting parents through programs which increase self-confidence and parenting skills.  Positive parenting has a beneficial effect on children’s cognitive, emotional and behavioural development. Parenting activities will also focus on household management, budgeting and time management.

 

Supports are available to assist you such as:

- child care during and after school

- transportation to school and parenting activities

- supplies

- counselling

- recreational Activities

- links to community agencies and resources

 

Incentives:

A $500 incentive is available for participants when they graduate from high school and complete approved parenting activities.  This incentive may be issued as a bursary for post-secondary education or training, or held in trust for the education of the child(ren).