$1M grant helps Tulare County farmworkers pursue advance careers in Agriculture
**$1 Million Grant Supports Tulare County Farmworkers in Advancing Agricultural Careers**
TULARE COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) — A $1 million grant from the Employment Development Department (EDD) is empowering Tulare County farmworkers and their families to pursue advanced careers in agriculture. Through the Ag Skills Advancement program, the Workforce Investment Board and Employment Connection are providing vital services designed to support families and help them stay rooted in their communities.
“Every person is treated as an individual, because everyone has their own experience, everyone has different goals, so we try to encourage ourselves and ourselves to provide the services that they expect,” explains Dalila Silva from Employment Connection.
Tulare County is one of only three counties in California to receive funding for this innovative program. Since its launch in July 2024, the collaborative effort has helped dozens of participants progress in their careers.
### Support Services Offered
The program offers a variety of services to assist participants, including:
– Career coaching
– Childcare assistance
– Scholarships up to $5,000
– Transportation support
– Interview attire
– College application assistance
These resources aim to reduce financial burdens and open new doors for farmworkers and their families.
### A Personal Story of Hope
One Tulare County mother shared how the program inspired her to pursue her own career goals:
“Watching my kids grow up and continue with their education and achieving their goals made me want to continue with mine, and I know it’s not too late, so I’m doing it myself.”
### Who Is Eligible?
Youth as young as 16 can access services through the Youth Program, which focuses on individuals aged 16 to 24. The Adult Program serves those 24 and older.
### Building the Next Generation of Agricultural Leaders
Desiree Linderos, Program Coordinator at the Workforce Investment Board, emphasized the program’s success:
“We have been operating this grant for a little over a year. We have been pretty successful in placing individuals in either upscaling their position or brand new positions, or brand new training, such as agriculture, health care, logistics.”
### Upcoming Information Session
The first free information session will take place on Thursday, November 6, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at 54 N. Main Street, Porterville, CA.
**What to Bring:**
– Driver’s license or ID
– Social Security card
– Details on whether you receive any public assistance
The grant program will continue through September 2026, providing ongoing support to Tulare County residents.
### Learn More and Get Involved
For more information on the Ag Skills Advancement Program, upcoming sessions, and a list of over a dozen locations across Tulare County, please visit [insert link here]. You can also visit their offices in person at various locations throughout the county.
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This program offers an excellent opportunity for farmworkers and their families to gain valuable skills, access education, and build a sustainable future in agriculture and related industries. Don’t miss out on this chance to grow your career and strengthen your community!
https://abc30.com/post/1m-grant-helps-tulare-county-farmworkers-pursue-advance-careers-agriculture/18122461/
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