Florida's thriving economy and low unemployment have created strong opportunities for welfare recipients seeking gainful employment. The Florida Model Florida is unique in its emphasis on local control. They have the primary responsibility for helping recipients transition from welfare to work and economic sustainability. Finding a job in a job-rich economy is relatively easy. Maintaining employment, and gaining the necessary skills to move up the economic ladder, are tougher assignments.
Benefits continue even after individuals leave welfare to help families in the critical transition.
However, research indicates that many former welfare recipients are unaware of or not accessing many benefits available to them. Communicating these benefits and re-engaging former welfare recipients to promote these opportunities after they have left public assistance will be important efforts in developing this new workforce. Equally important will be efforts to engage and better serve the business customer seeking new workers. These are the key issues as we prepare for the 21st century.