Washington receives $3.7 million to assist military spouses - Dec. 3, 2007

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Media contact: Bill Tarrow, 360-902-9376

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OLYMPIA – The Employment Security Department has been awarded $3.7 million by the federal departments of Labor and Defense to help military spouses find jobs, receive training or launch a new career.

The three-year initiative, which begins in January 2008, will be offered to military spouses at Fort Lewis, McChord Air Force Base and the Naval Station Kitsap.

“The frequent moves required by the military make it difficult for spouses to establish long-term careers,” said Karen Lee, commissioner for the Employment Security Department.  “These funds will help spouses develop occupational skills that can travel with them for a lifetime.” 

Nearly 80 percent of military spouses report that they want and need work, yet they suffer an unemployment rate that is three times higher than their civilian counterparts, according to the Department of Labor.  Further, nearly three-fourths of military spouses say they can’t afford the costs of continuing their education.

Under the new initiative, spouses can receive up to $3,000 per year for two years to pursue high-demand, portable occupations in education, health care, information technology, financial services and the construction trades.  The money can be used to pay for tuition, books, equipment, and credentialing or licensing fees.

Only spouses of active-duty service members in grades E1 through E5 and O1 to O3 are eligible to participate.  They also must have a high school or general education diploma.

Seven other states with large military populations will participate in the initiative, including California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Maine and North Carolina.

Individuals interested in learning more about the Military Spouse Career Advancement Initiative should visit their installation’s Voluntary Education Center, Family Support Center or local WorkSource office in Pierce or Kitsap counties. Information is also available at www.MilSpouse.org.

WorkSource is a partnership of government agencies, community colleges and non-profit organizations that offer employment and training services for job seekers and businesses.

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