The Illinois Department of Human Services (DHS) and Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) have openings available to help SNAP recipients receive training and learn skills to gain meaningful employment.
The pilot program, called Employment Opportunities, Personalized Services, Individualized Training and Career Planning (EPIC), is designed to have a positive impact on Illinois residents who could benefit from the help.
“Working through innovative programs like EPIC, Illinoisans receiving food assistance can gain the education and skills they need on their journey toward self-sufficiency,” DCEO acting Director Sean McCarthy said. “We hope that this program can serve as a launching point for broader engagement of SNAP participants as we support them in their movement toward independence.”
The main program participants are adult SNAP recipients who are without children and able to work. Services include one-on-one job training; connections to employers in high-growth, high-demand careers; and help navigating the career process in general.
“We would like to encourage SNAP recipients to learn about the various education and training opportunities like EPIC that are available to them,” DHS Secretary James Dimas said. “We are proud to be collaborating across state agencies and with local partners to implement innovative programs like EPIC that have a meaningful impact on the lives of Illinois residents.”
Illinois is one of 10 states that received a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, securing $21 million to participate in the pilot program.
For more information about the program or how to sign up, visit ilepic.com.
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