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WorkSource to get $9.7M in stimulus funds
A publicly-funded agency devoted to developing Northeast Florida’s work force expects to receive about $9.7 million through the federal stimulus package.
WorkSource Inc. will spend about $2.3 million for its summer employment program that is expected to train and employ 1,200 to 1,5000 teenagers through its six-week program, said agency spokeswoman Candace Moody. The program, which normally serves about 700 teenagers, not only provides training, but pumps money back into the economy since participants are expected to spend much of their wages.
The majority of the rest of the federal funding will go to training the employed and unemployed. Moody said the agency expects its budget for fiscal year, which starts July 1, to be about $14 million to $15 million, and that doesn’t include the federal funding.
Aside from training teenagers, President Barack Obama’s administration is focusing on preparing citizens for jobs in advanced manufacturing, the medical field and green-related industries, Moody said. She said the agency will continue to work with local companies to better train their employees.
WorkSource plans to hold a conference in late April or early May where residents can learn more about what the agency has to offer.
