HISTORY

When Lutheran Services Florida (LSF) was established in 1982, the Agency assumed responsibility for the Employment programs in Miami and Tampa that were started by the Lutheran Church following the end of the Vietnam Conflict and the Mariel Boat lift in 1980. As the number of refugees and the need for services increased dramatically, LSF responded by expanding its programs.

LSF has developed valuable relationships with hundreds of businesses that provide employment opportunities for clients who are WAGES participants, Refugees, and/or Homeless individuals. LSF also maintains a Job Bank containing a wide selection of jobs catering to both skilled and unskilled workers.


WAGES PARTICIPANTS

The Work And Gain Economic Self-sufficiency Act (WAGES) was designed to help current and prospective recipients of Temporary Aid to Needy Families (TANF) make the transition from public assistance to the work force. The goal is to help people become self-sufficient.

Federal tax credits give employers incentives to hire WAGES clients making jobs available for entry-level positions, as well as jobs that require special skills and professional experience.

Services include:

• Employment Preparation Sessions
  LSF Counselors teach clients how to prepare for job interviews and evaluate their work skills.

• Intensive Placement Services
  Clients participate in job search activities and learn related work skills until they are employed.

• Job Retention and Support Services
  Clients receive counseling and guidance to help them keep their jobs and succeed in the workplace.
   

REFUGEES/ENTRANTS
 

This Program helps eligible refugees/entrants (who have been in the United States for less than five years) find employment and become self-sufficient.

Services include:

• Employability Skills Training Workshop

• Assistance with Language Difficulties

• Child Care Referrals

• Job Referrals and Placement

• Assistance with Transportation Needs

• Follow-up Services

HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS
 

Employment counselors provide assistance to individuals in homeless families who are participants to help them find jobs and become productive, contributing, independent members of the community.

Services include:

• Skills Assessment and Employment Preparation

• Job Referrals and Placement

• Job Retention and Support Services