PANOLA COLLEGE AWARDED SELF-SUFFICIENCY GRANT
Panola College and local health care providers have joined the Texas Workforce Commission to train economically disadvantaged residents of East Texas in health care related jobs. More than 150 East Texans have the opportunity to access free training and support services, thanks to a recently funded self-sufficiency grant in the amount of $444,665. Persons in Panola, Harrison, Marion, Gregg, Rusk, and Shelby Counties who currently qualify to receive food stamps or persons who qualify as TANF (temporary assistance to needy families) recipients will be eligible for the program. The Texas Workforce Commission awarded these funds to Panola College for a project geared to train individuals in health related areas including certified nurse aide, medication aide, phlebotomy, and institutional custodial training. The demand for skilled workers in health care is great. Upon completion of training, recipients will be employed in a nursing home or local hospital. For underemployed workers, this is an opportunity to begin a career track and enhance earning potential. Participants can benefit from support services, including child-care, transportation, and essentials including hospital shoes and uniforms.
Business partners who are committed to this project include Marshall Regional Medical Center, Colonial Park Nursing Home, Longview Regional Medical Center, and Good Shepherd Medical Center. Currently, Panola College is seeking other health care facilities to join them. Support from the Deep East Texas and East Texas Development Workforce Boards, local One-Stops, local health care entities, and the Department of Human Services has made this grant possible.
Panola College personnel will coordinate between employee and employer to meet industry expectations and enhance opportunities for initial employment and/or advancement on the job, leading to a larger percentage of self-sufficient workers. With these funds, this program will successfully enhance the quality of life for East Texans. Chair Diane Rath, Commissioner Representing the Public for the Texas Workforce Commission, will make a formal presentation on Monday, October 8th at 2:00 P.M. on the Carthage campus. For more information, contact Dr. Barbara Buchanan, Director of Workforce and Continuing Education by e-mail at bbuchanan@panola.cc.tx.us or by phone at (903) 693-4650. Additional information concerning Panola College can be found on our website at www.panola.cc.tx.us.