Local disaster-relief jobs available

Due to the high unemployment rate created by the COVID-19 pandemic, Workforce Development Board, SDA-83 is assisting in implementing temporary disaster-relief jobs in area public schools and Council on Aging facilities.

The jobs, funded through a Disaster Recovery National Dislocated Worker Grant, directly relate to the effects or complications of widespread pandemic. Some duties of the proposed jobs are, but are not limited to: Cleanup activities as identified and deemed necessary, including cleaning schools, or sanitizing quarantine areas; Delivery of food, medicine and other supplies to affected or quarantined individuals, especially the elderly and those with chronic health conditions or other vulnerabilities.

The worker must be deemed eligible through the Workforce Investment Opportunity Act (W.I.O.A.) and be an individual temporarily or permanently laid off as a consequence of the COVID-19 emergency. It also pertains to self-employed individuals who became unemployed or significantly underemployed as a result of the pandemic. Individuals who have worked previously, who are currently seeking employment and have been unemployed or underemployed for 12 weeks, may also be eligible.

Although the focus is employment, participants will receive a three-day training in COVID-19 screening and preparation though Louisiana Delta Community College. The course will teach workers to identify high-use areas, proper cleaning supplies and other infection prevention basics. The course will also assure the worker will have basic knowledge in health triage if appropriate for their work site.

The job duration could run up to 39 weeks, offering an hourly wage of $12 at up to 30 hours a week.

Job seekers are urged to fill out a WIOA Pre-Application at www.WDB83.com to begin the process of determining eligibility. Workforce Development Board, SDA-83 serves Caldwell, East Carroll, Franklin, Jackson, Madison, Morehouse, Richland, Tensas, Union and West Carroll Parishes.