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Video: As unemployment benefits end, Workforce Development Center hopes to help

Jul 26, 2020 06:33AM ● By Editor

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Photo: WDIO-TV


By Emily Ness of WDIO-TV - July 25, 2020


The sun has set on the extra $600 per week millions have been receiving in unemployment benefits to help them through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now, those who are out of work will have to go back to making ends meet on regular state unemployment benefits, which typically accounts for less than half their salary.

As a result, many are looking for work. And, the Workforce Development Center in Duluth hopes to help.

“I think a lot of people are experiencing a lot of fear and uncertainty right now and so the thing that we want to communicate is that we’re here, we’re here to help. You’re not alone. We can help point you in the right direction,” Elena Foshay, Director of Workforce Development said.

According to Foshay, pointing people in the right direction at the Workforce Development Center includes reviewing their resumes, developing their interview skills and helping with their overall job search.

“People need to work, either because they want to or because what they would earn through unemployment insurance isn't enough to cover their bills so you know, now is the time to look for work,” Foshay said.

Foshay emphasized that the Workforce Development Center has been speaking to a number of businesses who are eager to hire and they do have some virtual work opportunities for those who may not want to return in person.

Other popular jobs hiring right now include jobs in the hospitality industry, according to Foshay.

“Long term care or production or retail or restaurants—things like that,” Foshay said.

The Workforce Development Center also offers a dislocated worker's program. Foshay said that could help people hoping to start their own business, earn a certification that would make them more competitive in the work force or go back to school.

The public is encouraged to reach out to the Workforce Development Center by calling 218-302-8400 or going to their website at Careerforcemn.com.

“There’s workshops, there’s live hiring events, you can sign up for an appointment to meet with a job counselor one on one by phone,” Foshay said. “Its free to anyone who reaches out and needs our help.”

Foshay recommends people reach out to the center sooner rather than later because she predicts the job market may become competitive as many return to work.

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