LA County launches pilot program to connect people with job opportunities in thriving industries
"The TSE Plus program will help our local workers earn wages. It will also assist them in developing the skills, experience, and financial security needed to secure quality jobs and careers, while advancing inclusive and sustainable growth in our economy," said DEO Director Kelly Lobianco. "We are rethinking how to connect our social safety net and public workforce systems to ensure economic opportunity and advancement for all."
LOS ANGELES:- The Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity and the Department of Public Social Services announced the Transitional Subsidized Employment Plus program today.
This pilot program is designed to connect participants of California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) and Greater Avenues for Independence (GAIN) with paid employment, job training, and career pathways in high-growth industries. Enrollment for the program is now open.
TSE Plus responds to the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors’ call to examine how the county’s safety net and public workforce systems can better serve residents in achieving economic mobility and meeting the talent needs of local industries.
Through a $6 million investment from DPSS and the California Department of Social Services’ Expanded Subsidized Employment Program, the pilot will serve 200 participants in high-need service areas.
Program services will be provided in collaboration with DPSS GAIN regions—specifically the San Gabriel Valley and GAIN Region VI (Southeast County)—and the Pomona Valley and Rio Hondo America’s Job Centers of California, with various training providers and employers engaged as workplace and recruitment partners.
The TSE Plus program offers a structured, personalized model that places participants into one of three program tracks based on their experience levels and career goals. It includes up to one year of paid work experience, job training through industry-informed “High Road” training partnerships, and direct matching with hiring employers, along with on-the-job training.
It is designed to meet participants where they are and provide support, skills, professional experience, and wages. Upon completing the program, all participants receive job-readiness training, financial and digital literacy instruction, career counseling, and assistance in securing employment that pays a family-sustaining wage. Childcare, transportation assistance, and other support services are also available throughout the program.
“This pilot reflects a more coordinated approach that recognizes people should be able to advance their careers without losing the support they rely on to care for their families,” said Los Angeles County Board Chair Hilda L. Solis. “Los Angeles County is making targeted investments that help residents strengthen their long-term economic stability while meeting the evolving needs of our regional economy.”
“The TSE Plus program will help our local workers earn wages. It will also assist them in developing the skills, experience, and financial security needed to secure quality jobs and careers, while advancing inclusive and sustainable growth in our economy,” said DEO Director Kelly Lobianco. “We are rethinking how to connect our social safety net and public workforce systems to ensure economic opportunity and advancement for all.”
DPSS states, “This partnership reflects the county’s commitment to integrating workforce development and supportive services to help program participants advance on the path to economic progress. The TSE Plus program creates a new approach to connecting our participants with employment opportunities, career pathways, and supportive services.”
Participants in the Southeast Los Angeles and San Gabriel Valley areas who are interested in TSE Plus are requested to contact the office to understand their eligibility and request a referral.
