A group of legislators are calling for $400 million of federal funding for the next fiscal year for a government program created to help older Americans re-join the workforce.
In an April 19 letter to the leaders of the Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, 28 senators wrote how the Senior Community Service Employment Program allows older low-income job seekers learn new skills and contribute to their communities through paid community training.
The program provides part-time community service training positions to individuals 55 and older. Participants work about 20 hours weekly and get paid at least the federal minimum wage. They’re also employed in various community service activities.
Last year, nearly 60,000 older Americans with substantial barriers to the job market trained at community employment centers and earned a living through the program, the senators said.
It’s become increasingly harder for older, most-in-need adults find jobs, so “it is crucial that we continue to invest in this vital program,” the group said.