HACKENSACK, NJ – Greater Bergen Community Action, Inc. (GBCA) has been awarded a grant from the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development to provide basic skills training for able-bodied adults between the ages of 18 and 50 without dependents (ABAWDs) in Bergen County. Under federal rules, New Jersey SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program--formerly known as Food Stamps) recipients who are identified as ABAWDs must participate in an approved work activity to remain eligible for SNAP. GBCA will work with ABAWD individuals and provide basic skills training, work readiness training, and financial wellness workshops.
Basic Skills Training will cover mathematics, reading comprehension, and writing using an online and self-paced learning tool that individualizes learning for each participant. Clients will also learn basic computer skills and Microsoft applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Work Readiness Training will follow The World of Work curriculum and will assist students with soft skills, including decision making, team work, self-esteem, and time management. Instructors will cover World of Work topics such as: How to do an Effective Job Search; Verbal and Nonverbal Communication Skills; Dressing for Success; Understanding your Pay-stub and Job Benefits; Self-Motivation and more.
Financial Wellness Workshops will follow the Moneysmart curriculum, an online course that provides financial literacy education on topics such as: Intro to Bank Services; Intro to Credit; How to Keep Track of Your Money; Why You Should Save and more.
In addition to accessing basic skills training, work readiness training, and financial literacy education, students will have the opportunity to participate in any of GBCA’s other programs and services which are geared towards helping low-income individuals and families overcome any barriers that might keep them from successfully completing their program (e.g. child care, housing/credit counseling, access to 1st Bergen Federal Credit Union, sponsored by GBCA, help with heating or cooling bills, etc.)