INTERNET ACCESS AND TRAINING GRANTS FOR WOMEN'S GROUPS

Released on December 17, 1997

Women's organizations in Saskatchewan are being offered an opportunity

to access the Internet and the new communications technologies, Judy

Bradley, minister responsible for the Status of Women announced today.



Under the Women's Organizations On Line Program, grants of up to

$7,000 will be available to non-profit women's organizations whose

primary purpose is to serve women and to promote women's equality.

The grants will help groups connect to the Internet and will assist in

training group members to use the new technologies. In total,

$775,000, previously announced in the 1997/98 budget, is being spent

over a two year period on the Women's Organizations On Line Program.



"Although many people and organizations in Saskatchewan are adopting

new communications technologies, women's groups often have little or

no access," Bradley said.



"Information literacy is necessary for active participation in today's

society. Internet access can help women's organizations reduce

communication costs and use resources more effectively. It can also

serve to break down barriers of isolation, particularly for rural and

northern women."



The new communication technologies can assist women's groups to

establish on-line networks, undertake research and to promote

their services to a wide audience.



The program places special emphasis on rural and northern women,

Indian and Metis women, visible minority and immigrant women, and

women with disabilities.



The Women's Organizations On Line Program is being administered

by the Saskatchewan Women's Secretariat. Applications have been

sent to Saskatchewan women's organizations. The deadline for

receiving applications is February 6, 1998. For a grant

application or more information call 787-4254.



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For more information, contact:



Susan Dusel

Women's Secretariat

Regina

Phone: (306) 787-7414