TORONTO, ON – The Hospitality Workers Training Centre (HWTC) is thrilled to announce the grand opening of the Service Workers’ Protect Ontario Workers Employment Response (POWER) Centre. This dynamic new hub is designed to help service sector workers facing lay-offs navigate career transitions with confidence while connecting hiring employers with top-tier, job-ready talent.
This exciting project is launched in proud partnership with Unifor. The POWER Centre is an Employment Ontario project, funded by the Government of Ontario through the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development’s Employment Ontario (EO).
The POWER Centre offers free, time-limited adjustment services specifically for hospitality and service sector workers who have been laid off, had their hours significantly reduced, or have received notice that their job will end. Participants gain access to free:
- Personalized Career Support: One-on-one coaching and customized Individual Transition Plans.
- Skills & Training: Short-term certifications (such as Smart Serve, Food Handlers, and WHMIS) and micro-credentials to boost employability.
- Wraparound Services: Coordinated access to financial counselling, mental health supports, and assistance with EI, OSAP, or Ontario Works.
- Direct Employer Connections: Sector-focused hiring events and job matching with employers ready to hire.
“Hospitality workers have been at the heart of Toronto’s economy, and this centre is about making sure they’re not left behind during periods of change,” said Elisha Muskat, Transitional Executive Director at HWTC. “We’re excited to work with Unifor, our employers, and community partners to help people land on their feet and thrive in the next stage of their careers”.
The Service Workers’ POWER Centre is now officially welcoming impacted workers for information sessions, coaching, and hiring fairs.
Media Contact:
Hospitality Workers Training Centre (HWTC) Phone: [437-247-3182] Email: connect@hwtc.ca Website: hwtc.ca
