Hilltoppers,

Yesterday I discussed how Hilltop is in an overall healthy position economically as we weather the COVID-19 outbreak. Today I’d like to share with you some insight on what is happening in the community and what our Workforce Center is doing to meet the increased need for services.

The GJ Chamber of Commerce is conducting continual surveys with its members to keep a pulse on how businesses are faring. Their latest survey found that 40% of businesses have seen a 50% drop in revenue and 38% have had to furlough employees. Clearly, times are extremely difficult for businesses and individuals.

Through March, unemployment numbers in Mesa County have increased sharply due to COVID-19, mirroring the national trend . I’m sure many of you may know someone that has recently been laid-off or furloughed through no fault of their own. The folks at the Workforce Center are working hard to make sure anyone in that position knows about the resources available to help:

  • The Mesa County Workforce Center’s website is the place to start looking for those resources. There are state and federal emergency funds available and a number of great links to connect to unemployment insurance, CARES Act information, and job seeking tips.
  • The Workforce Center is also keeping the pulse of local child care.  If you, family, or friends are in need of child care at this time, and/or assistance to pay for child care, please contact the Child Care hotline at 970-683-2300.
  • The Career Development Program is available to assist individuals receiving unemployment insurance who have an interest in taking this time to switch career fields, or move up the career ladder in their current field.  This program has federal grant funds to help pay for occupational skills training, support services, and work based learning opportunities to earn a wage while training with a local employer at their worksite.  Applications for this program can also be found on the Workforce Center’s website, under the Career Services tab.
  • Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, food assistance eligibility income guidelines have been expanded to help more individuals and families qualify for the help they may need.  The application and redetermination process has also been streamlined during this time to make it easier to apply. The Workforce Center has programs to connect you to this information.

Thank you to everyone at the Workforce Center for helping people through uncertain times with calm and compassion. Having a reassuring voice on the other end of the line can make all the difference to someone’s outlook and sense of hope.

Together, we got this,

Mike