Workforce Development Council Snohomish County

The Snohomish County Executive Office, United Way of Snohomish County and the Workforce Development Council Snohomish County (WDCSC) are hosting a multi-day resource fair designed to offer assistance to families and individuals impacted by the current economic crisis.

Called "Helping Hands for Hard Times," the three-day resource fair in multiple locations will provide employment, housing, financial and healthcare help to residents currently in need. There is no admission fee and all services will be offered to participants free of charge.

"We have to help families gain access to the resources they need to get through these difficult times," said Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon. "People all over this county are hurting. We cant rely on the politics playing out in Olympia or Washington, D.C."

More than 25 nonprofit and public agencies offering a variety of services will be present at each fair in Everett, Marysville/Tulalip and Lynnwood. Participants also can attend classes that focus on asset building, avoiding foreclosure, résumé building and interviewing techniques scheduled throughout the day at each location.

"With more than 10 percent unemployment, the need for services and job search tools is critical," said Carl Zapora, CEO and president of United Way of Snohomish County. "This expo is a terrific way for people to find services and helpful tips to get through these challenging times."

Resource fairs will be held:

1. Wednesday, February 10, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Thursday, February 11, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Friday, February 12, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Each event will allow for individual consultations as well as group sessions and workshops. Topics covered and services offered include: employment counseling, job search assistance, skills training, financial aid information for training, home and

personal finance consultation, weatherization and home energy assistance, housing resources, healthcare assistance, H1N1 flu vaccinations, childcare resources and a variety of other support services.

"Were seeing more and more people needing help during this difficult economic period," said Sue Ambler, CEO and president of WDCSC. "It makes a lot of sense to pull together all these resources for easy access."

Participants are advised to bring with them proper identification for different program requirements. Those people looking for employment referrals should bring an updated résumé.

For more information on specific classes or participating agencies, go to www.snoco.org and search "resource fair."