HAMILTON—The Ontario Living Wage Network (OLWN) is pleased to announce that FirstOntario Credit Union has become a the latest credit union to become a certified living wage employer, with all employees earning at least $16.45 per hour. In operation for over 80 years, FirstOntario serves more than 126,000 people with 31 branches throughout the Golden Horseshoe, Niagara Region and Southwestern regions of Ontario.

Jennifer Finlay, President and Chief Administrative Officer explains why they decided to certify:

"When you invest in your employees through a living wage, you invest in the health of the community and ensure no one is left behind. Being a living wage employer supports our employee recruitment and retention at FirstOntario Credit Union. Certification shows we recognize the critical role our people play in our success. The health of the community is dependent on the success and commitment of everyone, and business has an important role to play."

The local living wage rates where FirstOntario operates were last calculated in 2019, and are due for an update on November 1st of this year. 

With FirstOntario's latest certification, there are now 7 Credit unions with dozens of branches across Ontario: Kindred Credit Union, Libro Credit Union, Main Street Credit Union, Pathwise Credit Union, PenFinancial Credit Union, and Your Credit Union.  

"FirstOntario Credit Union believes in investing where it matters most, in our communities and our people. Our employees are proud to be part of a company that is committed to strengthening our community. By formally becoming a Certified Living Wage employer we highlight our longstanding commitment to paying a living wage and demonstrate the importance of being a living wage employer." Finlay goes on to say. 

Welcome to the network FirstOntario Credit Union! Certified Living Wage employers really do make the best sector recruiters.