(Chicago, IL) — July 20, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today announced that in less than three months 22,162 people across the state have land jobs through the Put Illinois to Work employment program.
“We have created more than 22,000 jobs that would not have been possible without Put Illinois to Work,” said Quinn.
Through Put Illinois to Work, launched in April, eligible Illinois residents are placed in subsidized employment positions with participating worksites for up to six months, learning valuable skills and supporting their families.
Put Illinois to Work is a collaborative effort of the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) and Heartland Human Care Services.
“The state worked really quickly to get the program up and running, and our community partners and employers have really stepped up to help us surpass our goals,” said IDHS Secretary Michelle Saddler.
In addition, under the state’s youth employment program, more than 1,500 unemployed and underemployed Illinois youth between the ages of 16 and 24 are receiving real-world work experience this year. Youth are placed in subsidized employment in a variety of work settings through September 30. It is expected that 5,000 youth will receive jobs.
“This short-term program will have a long-term impact on the skills and life opportunities for young people,” said DCEO Director Warren Ribley. “By boosting employment of our youth we are positively impacting our economy and developing a stronger workforce for the future.”
Funding for the Put Illinois to Work and youth employment programs is provided through the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Emergency Contingency Fund, which was created by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
Due to the success of the program, the state is no longer accepting employer applications.
More than 30,000 Illinois residents will benefit from this program by its completion, according to Quinn Administration estimates.
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