Representative Gerald Greene announced from the State Capitol two new federal programs that will be handled through the Georgia Department of Human Services. One of the programs is Teen Work, and the other one is Jobs for Georgians. Both of these programs would be helpful to people seeking jobs and learning job skills while helping businesses. The need to lower state unemployment numbers and jump start a faltering economy is the primary goal of these stimulus funds.

The Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) is helping youth aged 14-18 learn new work skills while earning income this summer. The federally funded effort will help youth build strong work habits while jump-starting Georgia’s economy. Teen Work jobs are available June 1 to July 31, 2010. The jobs pay $8.50 an hour for up to 35 hours a week. Jobs are available in many different businesses, industries and governments.

This isn’t just a great opportunity for Georgia teens; it is also great for Georgia businesses. Teen Work allows business owners to strengthen their business at no cost. Teen Work provides a 100 percent subsidy for businesses employing qualified youth for up to 35 hours a week from June 1 to July 31, 2010. Employers will not have to seek reimbursement. Employees will be paid using funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

For more information visit www.georgiateenwork. org or call (888) 884-4712.

JOBS FOR

GEORGIANS

The Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) is using federal stimulus dollars to help put 5,000 Georgians back to work. Adults who have dependent children and an annual income at or below 300 percent of the federal level for a family of four (approximately $66,000), are currently receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, and parents participating in the Child Support Fatherhood Program whose children are TANF eligible are among the Georgians who qualify for this program.

DHS is currently seeking employers across the state to employ Georgians. Employers will receive an 80 percent wage subsidy for hiring workers under the program using funds from the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Employers will be eligible for the Work Opportunity Tax Credit as well as the Welfareto Work Tax Credit. DHS will prescreen prospective employees, conduct background checks (if required), and provide job coaching to prospective employees to ensure the success of the program. Employers cannot replace existing employees to take advantage of the subsidy.

Federal subsidies for the program are available through September 30, 2010. Positions must pay wages similar to wages paid to current employees performing similar tasks. The maximum subsidy for a six-month period per employee is $26,000.

For more information, send requests to TANFEmployers@ dhr.state. ga.us.