Barry Partners
Barry County Transit
Work First participants utilize Barry County Transit for transportation to and from Job Club, for job search, and to and from employment for a period of time after they become employed. The Work First Program provides funding for the service, and costs vary depending on the destination. The transit also provides discounts for children and seniors. Barry County Transit requires a 24 hour notice in order to coordinate services.
Love, Inc
Love, Incorporated, a non-profit organization, refers Work First participants to food banks, available employment opportunities, and transportation. Love, Inc. also offers assistance with utilities, money management, counseling, and dental and vision care.
Alpha Women's Center
Work First participants are referred to the Alpha Women’s Center for maternity clothes, baby clothes, baby formula, and diapers. The Center provides free pregnancy testing, information on abortion, adoption, and STDs. Participants receive confidential counseling and may be referred to support groups if needed.
Seventh Day Adventist Community Center
This Christian organization provides interview and work clothing for eligible participants. The center receives new clothing donations from Wal-Mart. The Center's hours are Mondays and Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Community Action Agency
Community Action Agency (CAA) can provide one-time weatherization, insulation, heat, and /or utility assistance to eligible participants based on income. CAA also helps with rent, mortgage, back property taxes, and emergency food to those who qualify. This program is funded by State grants, and Work First participants must be referred to CAA for home heating and emergency food. CAA hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on an appointment basis only.
Michigan State University Barry County Cooperative Extention Family Nutrition Program
The MSU Extension Program provides free classes for Barry County participants who are eligible to receive food stamps. The service helps participants budget their food stamps, learn to select nutritious food items and cook low cost meals. With this service, participants are better able to use their food stamps carefully and eat more nutritiously.
Barry County Mental Health
Participants may attend Barry County Mental Health Service for counseling to help with problems that may prevent them from obtaining and keeping employment. The fee for this service is income based. The Mental Health Service provides a 24-hour hotline for those who need assistance after hours.
Barry County Substance Abuse
Work First participants are referred for help with substance abuse problems. The service fee is income based. The agency accepts Medicare, some Medicaid, and most other insurances.
Quality Staffing
Work First encourages participants to register with this temporary employment agency for possible placement as positions open.
Manpower
Participants are encouraged to register with Manpower for possible placement as openings occur.
Michigan Vocational Rehabilitation Services
Participants with disabilities who have difficulty finding or keeping employment may be referred to Michigan Rehabilitation Services for employment related assistance.
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