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CADA LAUNCHES ARRA SUCCESS PROGRAM
FOR THOSE IMPACTED BY THE ECONOMY
Choanoke Area Development Association (CADA) has launched a new self sufficiency program modeled after the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) with funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). With expanded eligibility, this program is specifically designed for families who have been negatively impacted by the downturn in the economy.
Titled the “SUCCESS PROGRAM” – Services Uniting CADA and Community for Economic Sustainability and Success – this ARRA/CSBG Program integrates and utilizes the proven case management strategies employed in all CADA Programs. As always, CADA will rely on its comprehensive in-house program referral system as well as its extensive community network to serve its clients. However, to address the emerging situations confronting those who may have finished their education, acquired assets and achieved self sufficiency -- but are now struggling in this economy – CADA has added some new elements.
SUCCESS Staff will identify jobs currently available and growing in our service area and make referrals to community colleges for short and long term skills training. The program can provide support funds to assist with books, fees, tools, uniforms, licensing fees, etc. The program will also introduce participants to Joblinks and refer and place for work experience, paid or unpaid, with local employers.
CADA will work with county economic developers, employers and the Employment Security Commission to identify areas of growth and make placements. Career paths for specialized populations (dislocated homemakers and the formerly incarcerated) will be developed. For those already employed, referrals will be made to programs to upgrade and develop employment skills, while working to stabilize other life sectors. For entrepreneurs, assistance with business plans, specialized training, facility location (including incubator), licensing/permit fees is available.
In addition to job development, educational support and case management, the SUCCESS Program offers the following services to promote family stability and self sufficiency:
Income Management: Two level financial literacy training – one for participants who are just beginning to budget; a second level for those now receiving unemployment benefits and may need assistance in budgeting for mortgage modifications and credit card, auto debt, etc. CADA is an EITC/Tax Site and this service will be extended to all participants; also two foreclosure prevention programs and credit counseling services are available. Housing: Participants will be offered the opportunity to have their house inspected for Weatherization -- work completed if desired and eligible; support funds will be available for emergency assistance with regards to mortgage payments, first/security deposits for rentals, and the purchase of essential appliances if not available from other sources. Nutrition: Coordinate with food pantries and other nutritional services in all four counties, including access to vitamins for children and adults; workshops on healthy and affordable cooking and eating habits. Program will supplement nutritional needs not met by existing services/programs such as food stamps and Emergency Food and Shelter Program. Emergency Services: Funds for emergency assistance pertaining to food, transportation, housing and employment; expanded referrals to community resources. Healthcare: Referrals for no or low cost healthcare; free or low cost prescriptions; assistance with applying for benefits; workshops by mental health consultant re: stress management, staying healthy, detecting depression, increasing and detection and prevention of unsafe conditions, e.g., domestic violence or child neglect and abuse. For more information on the SUCCESS Program, please contact the CADA Community Center in your county: Bertie (794-5616); Halifax (537-1111); Hertford (332-2692) and Northampton (539-4155) and ask to speak to a Success Coach.
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