Because the workers were laid off, they have access to all of the center's services. Though anyone can use services at the work force center, some programs are restricted by income requirements. The services are free. The center is available for residents each day, but when lay offs occur, center administrators enter a crisis management mode. The center works with a company to organize an orientation workshop as soon as the job cuts are announced.
Companies usually contact the center before lay offs occur.
Viatel inquired about the agency's services more than a week before employees were told, he said. We can already start doing the work right here. At the workshop, the workers can sign up for unemployment insurance, consider returning to school or view a list of jobs available immediately in the area. This is a quick way of doing it. He said usually 30 percent of those out of work attend the workshop.