San Francisco expands COVID relief grant to assist dislocated workers with $775000 funding

San Francisco County's Office of Economic and Workforce Development (OEWD) has received retroactive approval to accept and expand a significant grant of $775,000 from the California Employment Development Department. This funding, part of the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), is aimed at providing essential supportive services to dislocated workers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

During a recent government meeting, David Walker, a senior community development specialist with OEWD, outlined the importance of this grant, which extends the initial $675,000 awarded in July 2020. The additional funding will allow OEWD to assist an extra 125 participants who have faced job losses or reduced hours due to the pandemic. The grant is designed to provide up to $800 per individual for various supportive services, including housing assistance, childcare, and necessary equipment for remote work.

The funding is particularly focused on supporting English learners and monolingual adults who have been disproportionately impacted by the economic fallout of COVID-19. Walker emphasized that the funds must be fully utilized by June 30, 2021, and that indirect costs and staffing expenses are not covered under this grant.

This decision marks a crucial step in addressing the ongoing challenges faced by the workforce in San Francisco, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the support they need to recover from the economic impacts of the pandemic. As the OEWD moves forward with the implementation of this grant, the community can expect enhanced resources aimed at fostering workforce stability and resilience.