The Employment Development Department (EDD) announced that it has awarded $250,000 to the California Workforce Association (CWA) to provide technical assistance to California’s 45 Local Workforce Development Boards. These 45 Local Boards are part of the statewide workforce development system and work together with local, state, and federal agencies to deliver job training, employment services, and business support for their communities.
“We are committed to helping California workers remain resilient when facing job losses,” said EDD Director Nancy Farias. “Through close collaboration with CWA and our partners, we will strengthen layoff aversion strategies that safeguard jobs.”
EDD’s Partnership with CWA
CWA will focus its assistance on Rapid Response services designed to assist workers and companies facing layoffs, plant closures, or major disasters. In collaboration with the EDD, California Workforce Development Board, California Federation of Labor Unions, and Workforce Development Agency, CWA will identify effective practices and develop recommendations to maximize the impact of Rapid Response funding across the state.
This collaboration will allow CWA to work closely with local workforce boards across the state to maximize Rapid Response funding, helping communities retain jobs and support businesses during challenging times. The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act authorizes the Governor to set aside up to 25 percent of the state’s Dislocated Worker funds to support California’s Rapid Response system and provide Additional Assistance (AA) grants.
Rapid Response Services and The Employment Development Department (EDD)
DEO’s Rapid Response program will quickly mobilize local public and private resources and connect individuals at an affected company to a customized set of in-person services that will minimize job loss disruptions. DEO is home to 18 local America’s Job Centers of California (AJCC).DEO administers LA County’s Rapid Response program, funded by the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
For Workers
If you’ve received a notice from your employer about being laid off due to a business closure, DEO can connect you to in-person and virtual employment services and benefits including:
- Unemployment Insurance
- Housing and Tenant Support
- Medical Coverage Options
- Job Search and Placement Services (career counseling, resume and interview workshops, paid work experiences, new trade learning opportunities, etc.)
- Health Benefits and Retirement Plans
Connect to DEO’s Rapid Response team by clicking on the link below:
Request Rapid Response Services
For Businesses
If your business is facing the possibility of layoffs or closure, DEO can provide services to help minimize the impacts on affected employees and work with your business to identify preventative measures including:
- Provide referrals within the community to government service
- Linkage with economic development activities at Federal, State,
and Local levels - Linkage to Federal Department of Commerce programs
- Assessing layoff aversion strategies
- Coordinating Labor-Management/Workforce Transition Committees
To connect to DEO’s Rapid Response team or for more information, email here:
RapidResponse@opportunity.lacounty.gov
Statewide Impact of Workforce Grants and Enhance Employment Opportunities
The $250,000 workforce development grant has statewide implications for employment stability. Local workforce boards across California are using these funds to implement innovative layoff aversion strategies. Such as subsidizing on-the-job training and funding career advancement programs. These initiatives not only support laid-off workers but also ensure businesses remain competitive in the evolving labor market.
If you have any questions regarding this information, contact. your Regional Advisor.
For more insight, visit The Employment Development Department (EDD).
Building a Resilient Workforce
The CWA has demonstrated its commitment to fostering a resilient workforce by equipping labor leaders with tools and training programs for job retention. Their advocacy for policies that protect workers’ rights and promote equitable employment practices. That ensures the workforce is prepared for future economic challenges. By leveraging public-private partnerships, CWA supports sustainable job creation and long-term economic growth.
Press Contact:
CWA Communications
(202) 434-1168
comms@cwa-union.org
Challenges in receiving in receiving unemployment benefits
While California has made considerable progress in supporting workers, challenges remain in accessing unemployment benefits. Some common hurdles include complex application processes, long waiting times, and documentation requirements. To learn more about navigating these challenges and appealing denied unemployment claims, visit the unemployment benefits appeal page for expert legal guidance.
What the Grant Supports
California’s proactive approach to workforce development and job retention through grants and partnerships. And rapid response initiatives underscore its dedication to economic resilience. The $250,000 grant to CWA is directed at job stability. That highlights the importance of collaborative efforts between state agencies, workforce boards, and labor organizations. By mitigating the impact of layoffs and fostering long-term career opportunities, California is building a more sustainable economy for its residents.
