The Recovery Act invested millions in new projects that are improving our infrastructue, repairing homes, and much more. But it also provided millions in direct benefits for families, students, businesses, investors, and more including more than $288 million in various forms of tax relief. Guidance on how to access each of those benefits is below.
Recovery Act Provisions:
- $175 for workforce boards in Texas to provide vocational services
- Allows states to contract with colleges and universities to place trainees
- Provides for training and funding to participants, including supportive services such as transportation, child care, and more
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WIA Employment Training funds are allocated among the 28 regional workforce boards around the state, providing free training in industries like automobile service, accounting, radiology, and more. Each board operates independently and can provide additional information about locations, services and benefits, approved training courses, and more. Special programs exist for veterans, disabled persons, ex-offenders, older workers, and recipients of public benefits such as TANF and SNAP.
Eligibility criteria vary by location, but most require that participants be American citizens or eligible to work in the US, have proof of a social security number, and be registered with the Selective Service if male.
To find out more and apply for training or educational programs:
1) Locate the workforce location nearest you.
The regional workforce boards can be found here, and most of those sites have additional branches that may be more convenient. For example, the workforce board in Tarrant County has five locations in Ft. Worth, one in Mansfield, one in North Richland Hills, and one in Arlington.
2) Contact a Career Counselor and ask about WIA training opportunities.
Workforce centers can be reached by phone, email, or in person. Prospective participants will have to fill out an application and verify their identity and income, in addition to other information. Don’t forget to mention military service, public benefits you receive, disabilities, or any other special circumstances.
3) Choose a career path and educational institution.
Each workforce center can provide a list of their occupational training and education programs, along with a list of approved colleges, universities, and training providers.
4) Take advantage of other services provided by workforce centers.
Workforce centers can help with job searches, work-related expenses, transportation, and more.
