At AWC’s Annual Conference last month, the City of Fife shared its innovative workforce development program for those who are not only unemployed, but unhoused. The energy and enthusiasm in the room for solutions to the housing and homelessness crises was seen in all the hands raised during the Q&A period. If you missed it, here are the key takeaways:
- The program takes a systems approach for reintegration into society – a job, housing, food, and hygiene are provided.
- Retention rate of participants in the program is 80%.
- The city is not providing a shelter. They provide a workforce development program that provides housing to participants during the 12-month program.
- Fife sees their program as bridging a societal divide between work and services. The program focuses on personal and professional skills and growth, while participants learn the trade of parks maintenance alongside city crews.
- The program required a patchwork of state and federal grants, with direct funding partnerships with the county and port to fund the program through 2030.
- Program staff emphasize a coaching approach with participants rather than a counseling model.
Interested to learn more? Check out the city’s website for more information on the program.