COI RECEIVES $330,646 FOR WELFARE TO WORK PROGRAM

Governor George E. Pataki recently announced that Chautauqua Opportunities, Inc. will receive $330,646 to support a program that helps welfare recipients obtain jobs with local businesses. The program, which is designed to help individuals find a rewarding career path, provides employers with wage subsidies when they hire welfare recipients.

The Welfare - to - Work Wage Subsidy Program provides job opportunities to public assistance recipients and other low - income families who have not yet been successful in finding a job. Through community - based organizations, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), eligible recipients who are at 200% of poverty level and Safety Net recipients receive job preparation services and are placed in jobs with private sector employers.

Employers receive a financial incentive to hire eligible individuals through a wage subsidy, while community based organizations provide support services to participants. Approximately 74 people will be served through this award to COI.

“Chautauqua Opportunities, Inc. presents exactly what their name implies—opportunities! With their commitment to child care, health, housing, and community assistance, they are providing an invaluable service to the residents of Chautauqua County.” stated Senator Pat McGee.

Assemblywoman Catharine M. Young stated, “For many individuals, this program is a great opportunity to develop financial independence and learn the job skills needed to become full members of the workforce. This partnership is beneficial for everyone involved.”

According to Michael Yerico, Director of Family & Community Services, “This grant has been a team effort with the Department of Social Services, Partnership for Jobs, as well as the local Workforce Investment Board (WIB). The program will benefit both local businesses and the individuals served. The program targets the three most in demand job fields in Chautauqua County which are Health Care, Manufacturing, and Retail / Service / Tourism. We at COI are very proud to be part of this initiative that will help this county’s effort to reduce the public assistance roles “

For more information of the Welfare - to - Work program. Please contact Chautauqua Opportunities, Inc. at (716) 366 - 3333 or visit their website at www.chautauquaopportunities.com

<<BACK