Providence launches Green Pathways out of Poverty Partnership
The mayor of Providence, Rhode Island announced the $3.1 million Green Pathways out of Poverty Partnership to train low-income, unemployed residents for green jobs. The city received one of only 38 grants nationwide from the Department of Labor.
The Green Pathways program will last for 16 weeks and provide 190 adults with literacy, basic skills education and green job skills. When students from the program graduate, they will have earned up to five industry-recognized certifications in renewable energy, green renovation, deconstruction and energy-efficient weatherization. It includes a four-week program where participants will earn the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) certification followed by 12 weeks of hands-on training that includes OSHA lead and asbestos remediation certification, as well.
This is the first green jobs training program in Rhode Island to target the poorest residents, as other programs are geared toward trained workers who are looking to advance their skills. Green Pathways will provide English language development skills for participants who may speak one of over 30 different languages in the city.
Green Pathways participants will be paid $140 per week for 11 weeks to work 20 hours in high-poverty neighborhoods providing education and energy-efficient residential upgrades. Program graduates will receive job placement assistance, as well.
For the full story, go to The Providence Journal.
