Money is still available to assist employers in hiring dislocated workers in Montgomery County.  Project HIRE (Hometown Investment in Regional Economies) is funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and helps connect employers in targeted growth industries with current job openings hire dislocated workers.  Late last year $7 million was allocated for businesses to employ 1,200 to 2,000 eligible job seekers statewide on a first-come, first-served basis.  Approximately $3 million remains. 

“So far 42 people are currently working full-time as a result of this initiative between the Montgomery County Department of Job and Family Services and the Dayton Area Chamber of Commerce,” said Heath MacAlpine, assistant director of the department’s Workforce Development Division.  “I urge local businesses to take advantage of this great opportunity.

Employers receive up to a $6,000 stipend per employee hired to assist with short-term training or certification for an eligible job seeker to meet an employer’s hiring conditions.  There is no cost to businesses to participate while funding is available.  The employer may also be eligible for tax credits.  Dislocated workers employed through Project HIRE must remain with the business for a minimum of six months after training is completed with the employer. 

Businesses interested in finding out more information should call the Project HIRE employer hotline at 225-6444.