Texas Workforce Commission Awards Workforce Solutions $1,238,884 in Funding to Support Local Employers and Job Seekers Affected by COVID-19 

 

McAllen, TX – The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) awarded Workforce Solutions (WFS) $1,238,884 in federal funds to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak in Hidalgo, Starr and Willacy counties. These program funds are designed to assist business recovery efforts by providing employers with the equipment necessary to aide in maintaining current business operations or preparing for reopening safely.

 

“COVID-19 has placed a financial strain on many of our local businesses and community citizens,” said WFS Board Chair Sonia Falcon adding: “This funding, along with other ongoing efforts put forth by county leadership, such as Judge Richard Cortez, Judge Aurelio “Keter” Guerra, Judge Eloy Vera and McAllen Mayor Jim Darling, will help provide additional relief to business  and job seekers.”

 

“We have identified over 100 local employers to help with these funds, which will allow the procurement of personal protective equipment, disinfecting supplies, and informational signage – all crucial items currently necessary to maintain operations,” said WFS Chief Executive Officer, Francisco Almaraz.  

 

In addition, WFS identified the importance of contact tracing to curb the spread of the virus and will assist local health agencies by providing up to 12 contact tracers from a pool of unemployed workers.

“We want our community to know that we are here for them during these unprecedented times; as such, safety protocol trainings will be provided to more than 1,000 individuals. These trainings will equip and inform new and returning job seekers on trainings such as but are not limited to workplace safety, disinfecting, and social distancing. Our goal is to inform, educate and help mitigate the spread of COVID-19,” said Almaraz.

 

For additional assistance, please visit  our workforce resource page available at www.wfsolutions.org/COVID19 with information relative to unemployment benefits, childcare, jobseeker/employer FAQ’s, and more. We will continue to monitor federal, state, and local directives daily and adjust accordingly.  Thank you to our valued partners and customers.

 

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