New Mexico agencies join forces to help needy families find employment

Human Services partners with Workforce Solutions

December 15, 2020

For Immediate Release

Contact:
Stacy Johnston, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions, Stacy.johnston@state.nm.us
Ashley Espinoza, New Mexico Human Services Department, Ashley.espinoza2@state.nm.us

New Mexico agencies join forces to help needy families find employment

Human Services partners with Workforce Solutions

(Santa Fe, NM) – The New Mexico Human Services Department (HSD) is partnering with the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions (NMDWS) to provide services to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) participants who qualify for the New Mexico Works employment programs, Career Link and Wage Subsidy. These two programs provide employment opportunities to TANF participants that will give them the work experience needed to obtain full time unsubsidized employment.

“This collaboration is designed to combine the expertise of each agency to strengthen and improve the workforce by matching unemployed New Mexicans with employers who need to hire and retain skilled workers,” said Human Services Secretary David Scrase, M.D.

The Career Link and Wage Subsidy programs provide eligible TANF participants with paid work experience. Participants will be compensated by NMDWS but assigned to work in state agencies or with private-sector employers who partner to provide mentorship support. Ultimately the goal is that participants secure long-term employment at a sustainable wage. Immediate family members will also receive supportive services to reduce their need for temporary assistance.

“New Mexico is shifting toward developing improved ways in which New Mexicans can receive streamlined services across all state agencies. Our overall goal is to eliminate silos, streamline application submissions for program eligibility, eliminate duplication of effort, and build an overall successful outcome for New Mexicans,” said Bill McCamley NMDWS Secretary.  

Over the past several months, HSD and NMDWS have been working collaboratively to ensure a smooth transition of services for participants, current employer partners, and community stakeholders. This transition will allow NMDWS to serve TANF participants by working with the existing Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act partners to expand access to training and educational opportunities. NMDWS is also working with current and new employer partners to increase work experience options.

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