Federal monthly payments end for thousands of Central Coast residents
CENTRAL COAST, Calif. (KION) Thousands on the Central Coast will have to seek employment after monthly unemployment benefits come to an end just before Labor Day.
Nearly 9 million Americans will no longer be receiving $300 per week. These federal funds were meant to provide some relief to families impacted by the Covid-19 Pandemic.
"It's been a while, it's been almost two years for me," said a Salinas Resident.
He used to work in the agricultural sector. However, after suffering an injury in addition to the pandemic, he's been searching for employment that fits his needs.
“It means a lot for me and my family,” he said.
Business Services Specialist, Laura Kershner said their office Is already seeing an increase in people seeking help in finding a job. They're hoping they could be a resource as more people start working to get hired.
“Now that the pandemic unemployment insurance has expired as of the fourth of September, we anticipate that there'll be an increase in driving people back to work,” said Kershner. “That may be the impetus that's needed to get the economy's spurred again and going”
For those looking to get back into the workforce, Kershner said the top industries include: agriculture, hospitality, healthcare,and tourism.
“ A lot of people like to think they're just lazy because they're being reliant on UI,” she said. “I think there are also people who have childcare needs, who can't afford to go back to work.”
According to Kershner, the nearly 16-thousand unemployed people in Monterey County may also be facing transportation challenges. However, there may be lots who just waited until the last minute.
Monterey County Workforce Development has a job fair monthly and they're hoping to register around 100 people to meet with about 20 different employers this month.
“We've just got a number of industries that need people,” she said. “We've got an upcoming virtual Job Fair this next week on September 15. We encourage people to register and sign up for, that that's a great way to get back to work.”
The virtual job fair will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For residents who would like to know more about the upcoming job fair visit their website or call their office at (831) 796-3331.
