Neighbor News
Single Dad Impacted by COVID-19 Starts a New Career
Monmouth County resident Jermaine begins his career as a school bus driver after calling the Monmouth County Division of Social Services
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Monmouth County resident Jermaine lost his job at a warehouse. At a time of such uncertainty, he worried about the future; not just for himself but for his 8-year-old son.
His cousin suggested he reach out to the Monmouth County Division of Social Services for assistance. She told him how she received a grant and took school courses through their Workforce Development program. “Maybe they could help you like they helped me,” she proposed.
Soon after, when Jermaine lost his home and moved into a temporary living facility with his son, he decided to take his cousin’s advice and call the Monmouth County Division of Social Services.
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“It was very easy and straightforward. I went in, filled out some paperwork, and only about a week or so later I heard back,” said Jermaine. “They set me up with food assistance, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and I was referred to Monmouth County Division of Workforce Development’s WorkFirst New Jersey (WFNJ) program. I completed the WFNJ requirements and was accepted to take a driving school course so I could get my Commercial Driving License (CDL).
“While I was taking courses and searching for jobs, the Workforce Development team regularly checked in on me,” Jermaine added. “They would just call and ask how things were going or send me job listings.”
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Now for nearly two years, after passing his exam and earning his CDL, Jermaine has been employed as a school bus driver.
“I would encourage anyone who has an interest in switching careers to at least look into it,” Jermaine said. “If you’re not happy with where you are at or what you are doing, remember to check your options because there is more out there than you may know.”
Occupational and trade training, job placement and career-building opportunities are just a few of the many life-changing services available to Monmouth County families and individuals receiving support services through Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). SNAP and TANF recipients are encouraged to call the Monmouth County Division of Social Services at 732-431-6000 x6323.
For more information on WorkFirst New Jersey, visit https://workinmonmouth.com/workfirst-new-jersey/.
