European funding of £5 million will play a "hugely important part" in work aimed at tackling poverty, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said.
Cash from the European Social Fund (ESF) together with money from local councils will see almost £13 million spent on projects aimed at eradicating the problem and promoting equal opportunities.
With the vote to leave the European Union (EU) putting funding for such work in jeopardy, Ms Sturgeon also stressed the Scottish Government is working hard to "ensure we continue to remain within Europe to enjoy these hugely vital and worthwhile initiatives".
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The First Minister made the comments as she visited Project Search in Paisley, a scheme run by Renfrewshire Council to help youngsters with autism and learning disabilities find work.
Ms Sturgeon hailed it as "an excellent example of how the money is being invested in traineeships to get people into work".
She said: "This government's clear focus on tackling inequality is at the forefront of all we do and this funding will play a hugely important part in our efforts to eradicate it from Scotland's communities.
"In Renfrewshire alone ESF is providing nearly £400,000 which, when matched by funding from the local authority, will come to around £1 million.
"This will benefit a range of projects and provide much-needed support in areas such as debt management, childcare and housing support, and well-being services."
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The First Minister continued: "This is another example of how our membership of the EU has a real and lasting impact on the lives of Scots from every walk of life.
"We are working hard to ensure we continue to remain within Europe to enjoy these hugely vital and worthwhile initiatives."
Renfrewshire Council leader Mark Macmillan said: "Project Search is about helping our young people to harness their talent, achieve their potential and find the sustained employment that changes lives.
"It is a clear example of a successful programme making a real difference on the ground and part of our innovative approach to tackling poverty.
"By equipping young people with the skills and experience they need to thrive in the workplace, we are giving them a solid foundation for long-term employment and making it less likely they will face financial hardship.
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"It also helps employers by ensuring that our area has a pool of people they can draw on to help their businesses prosper and grow."
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