TAMPA - Ten refugees from Burma, Haiti, Iraq and Sudan are the first graduates of a new short-term training program in housekeeping.

LG Training Programs of Tampa provided the two-week class for the students through the Lutheran Services Florida Refugee Employment Program. Timi ONeil and John Whittenton of LG attended the program graduation ceremony in the Tampa Bay Region office and presented certificates to the students.

Some of the students spoke a little English going into the class and some spoke none, but through the class the students picked up the language as they learned the tools and instructions for housekeeping. They did field work at various hotels in the area.

“I have been in the field with them,” said Isabel Chamberlain, Vocational Planner for LSF. “They are ready to find a job in housekeeping.”

Timi ONeil said the students gained knowledge as well as a sense of belonging in their new homeland.

“They contribute,” she said. “They become a part of things through working.”

After the students completed the training, LSF staff helped them fill out job applications. LG will serve as a job reference for the students.

The ten graduates of the first class were Biak Rem Chin, Huda Kareem, Marie Sindie Noel, Kendelle Jean, Pler Paw, Dum Men, Si Po, Kaw Ree Tee, Htwa Meh and Fatima Mohamed.

The students in this initial program were from Burma, Haiti, Iraq and Sudan, but the program can be adapted for clients from any country.

LSF’s Refugee Employment Program is open to refugees who have been in the United States less than five years. The program includes short-term training classes, on-the-job training, and help with job search and applications.

Anyone with a housekeeping business who is interested in the training or in hiring one of the graduates should contact Isabel Chamberlain at 813-676-9436 or mchamberlain@lsfnet.org.

Lutheran Services Florida is a statewide, nonprofit human services agency dedicated to helping all people in need regardless of religious affiliation, age or national origin. Headquartered in Tampa, the agency has more than 60 programs located throughout Florida. Since it was established in 1982, LSF has helped more than 850,000 children and families. LSF’s mission is to bring God’s healing, hope and help to people in need. To learn more visit www.lsfnet.org.