Caregiving Fair comes to Hope Center

Are you looking for work? Would you like to stay local? Whether you are considering a caregiving career or are someone seeking in-home care, you should stop by Employ Wahkiakum’s Caregiving Fair being held this Friday, Aug. 15 from 1-3 p.m. at the Hope Center (320 S 3rd St.) in Cathlamet.

Terrie Howell, who assists seniors for Wahkiakum County Health and Human Services, has been seeing an uptick in requests for in-home care in recent years. This care includes long-term assistance with cooking, cleaning, medications, bathing, and more, but can also be for the short term; specifically, for people who may have experienced an emergency or a hospitalization and suddenly find themselves in need of care.

“People have been waiting long periods for caregiving,” Howell said. “We have a real need for more caregivers who live locally.”

Representatives from various caregiving companies that provide service in Wahkiakum County will be available to speak with job seekers. They will also be looking for new clients, so anyone who has been looking for assistance is welcome to attend the fair.

In my role at WCHHS’ Employ Wahkiakum Office, my concerns are twofold. One, there are so few job opportunities here. Traveling to neighboring counties for work can be expensive and time-consuming. Secondly, we are an aging community with all its inherent issues, including an increasing need for care. I’m really hopeful that this will be a win-win-win for local people who need the in-home care, people who want to stay here and work here, and the companies who are joining us on Aug. 15.

WorkSource will join Catholic Community Services, Consumer Direct Care, Family Resource Home Care, and New Horizons at the Hope Center on Friday. Terrie Howell will be on hand to answer questions as well.

Employ Wahkiakum is financed for PY25 by a $45,200 Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act grant from the U.S. Department of Labor (100 percent of total program cost) provided through Workforce Southwest Washington. Employ Wahkiakum is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities thanks to groups like Washington Relay Service 711. For more info on Washington Relay Service 711, visit dhsh.wa.gov.