Employers can now apply for funding for the Canada Summer Jobs 2014 program from the federal government.
Kootenay Columbia MP David Wilks said the funding will create thousands of job opportunities for students across the country.
Wilks was speaking on behalf of Jason Kenney, Minister of Employment and Social Development and Minister for Multiculturalism. The government is creating jobs, economic growth and long-term prosperity, Wilks said.
"Through Canada Summer Jobs, we are helping students get the skills and training they need for jobs now and in the future," Wilks said. "We encourage employers to apply for funding and create jobs that will not only benefit students but communities and local economies as well."
The program is meant to help students gain the skills and experience to help them succeed in both present and future endeavours, while also earning money for the next school year.
This year, the application period for employers to get Canada Summer Jobs funding has changed.
Applications are now available at servicecanada.gc.ca/csj and must be submitted by Jan. 31, 2014.
Wilks said the new timelines mean successful employers will be notified sooner and have more time to recruit students.
Funding is available to not-for-profit organizations, public-sector employers and small businesses. Jobs in the program are open to youths between the ages of 15 and 30, who are full-time students and intend to return to school in the fall.
Every year, Canada Summer Jobs provides $107.5 million across all 308 federal constituencies to create student employment.
Since 2007, the program has helped over 260,000 students.
Canada Summer Jobs 2014 is expected to create approximately 35,000 jobs, while helping employers address skills shortages.
Canada Summer Jobs is part of the Government, Youth Employment Strategy.
Wilks said by investing in youth they are helping contribute to Canada's economic growth and long-term prosperity.