Harkins, Merski: Erie secures Digital Literacy & Workforce Development grants

Rep. Patrick J. Harkins    August 17, 2023 | 4:34 PM

ERIE, Aug. 17 – Broadening the ability for job seekers to attain the skills they need to succeed in the workforce, state Reps. Pat Harkins and Bob Merski, both D-Erie, announced today that Erie County received funding for two projects through the Digital Literacy and Workforce Development grant program.

The funding was awarded to the Greater Erie Community Action Committee and the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants/Erie Field Office.

“Digital literacy isn’t just a plus on a job resume – for many employers, it’s a requirement. This new funding will help ensure more job seekers in Erie have critical tech skills that provide a foundation for a successful career,” Merski said. He added, “GECAC has been on the forefront of providing training and services to people in the Erie area for years. This funding will be earmarked towards providing lessons on critical tech skills that will help sharpen an employee’s skillset.”

Harkins said, “The challenges and language barriers facing folks who arrive in our country seeking to start a new life for themselves and their families can be formidable – especially when it comes to securing work. The new funding will help make that process easier by providing linguistic and cultural instruction for individuals seeking to enter the workforce.”  

More information on the grant funding for the two Erie projects can be found here.

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