NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – The City of Newport News is set to address unemployment issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic with the launch of the CARES Workforce Assistance Program (C-WAP).
The city says their goal is to help over 215 residents obtain industry credentials and employment by the end of the 2020.
“We heard from many who are struggling with unemployment and are worried about how to provide for their families,” said Mayor McKinley L. Price. “This program underscores our city’s belief in our residents and their limitless potential. By investing in those who call Newport News home, we are transforming their circumstances and helping them begin challenging new careers in high-demand industries.”
The C-WAP program offers training in healthcare, information technology, maritime, construction/trades and truck driving.
Courses will be led by certified instructors from the following organizations:
- Centura College (truck driving – CDL)
- Shipper’s Choice (truck driving – CDL)
- Healthcare Training Solutions (healthcare)
- Talent Tech South (information technology)
- Hampton Roads Workforce Council/Virginia Ship Repair (maritime)
- Virginia Technical Academy (construction and trades)
The C-WAP Program is open to Newport News residents over the age of 18 who are not in school. Residents must be unemployed or underemployed due to COVID-19 or experiencing family hardships resulting from the pandemic.
Courses are set to begin immediately, with in-person training and virtual sessions.
The program is free for all and participants will graduate with national credentials by December 30. Many of the programs have rolling application deadlines.
For additional job training and workforce development supports, the city will open the Denbigh Workforce Center at 14851 Warwick Boulevard on Monday, October 5. The Center will be open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m
For more information, residents should email cwapcoordinator@gmail.com or call 757-354-7764.
