SASK. PARTY CUTS FUNDING FOR SKILLS TRAINING PROGRAM SUPPORTING AT-RISK YOUTH

For immediate release: April 16, 2025

Ignite Adult Learning Corporation Forced to Close After 30 Years of Setting Young Adults Up for Success

A Regina-based education and skills training centre that helped at-risk youth and young adults get back on their feet has been forced to shut down after the Sask. Party government slashed its provincial funding.

Ignite Adult Learning Corporation helped young adults who hadn’t finished high school gain skills, complete their education, and become financially independent.

The organization served as a lifeline for those facing poverty, homelessness, and other barriers — until the Ministry of Immigration and Career Training cut off funding.

Instead of continuing to fund the program, the government told Ignite to shop around for support from other ministries. Those efforts were unsuccessful.

“This government abandoned a program that worked — right in the heart of our community,” said Nicole Sarauer, the local MLA for Regina Douglas Park.

“Ignite helped young people who had fallen through the cracks find a second chance and contribute to their communities. For the Sask. Party to pull the plug with no explanation and no replacement is short-sighted and cruel.”

Ignite helped Tanya McNeice get a new start in life. She now owns her own IT consultancy business, has been nominated for the Nutrien Women of Distinction Award, and now serves as Ignite’s Board Chair.

“I’m a recovering addict and used to be on social assistance,” said McNeice. “Ignite’s model of wrap-around support enabled me to succeed and set my kids and grandkids up for success. Ignite’s students give back so much to their communities. For the good of our province, the Sask. Party must reverse its decision to close Ignite.”

The Saskatchewan NDP is demanding an immediate restoration of Ignite’s government funding.

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