Richmond County Literacy Network

It's Never Too Late To Learn!

Does Literacy Matter?
 

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Much of the information that people need to function in today’s world is in some form of written text whether it be a memo at work, a screen at the debit machine, a prescription from the doctor’s office or the budget at home.

Nearly half of adult Canadians have limited literacy skills which means they only understand very simple printed material.  These people are especially affected by any changes in their job requirements or employment situation.

· Statistics Canada (2001) reports that in Richmond County 49% of adults between the ages of 20 - 64 have less than a high school diploma, compared to 22% for Nova Scotia. 

Richmond County’s literacy situation can be explained to some extent by the fact that numerous jobs existed in fishing.  Therefore, it was possible to drop out of school and earn a reasonable living.  However, with the downturn in the fishing industry and the introduction of technology, low-skills job opportunities have greatly decreased.  Thus, the continuing need for literacy programs and services throughout Richmond County.