Resources for assistance in Snohomish County

A resource fair providing information on employment, housing, financial aid and health care assistance to Snohomish County residents currently in need will be held in three locations around the county.

Resource fairs:

• 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 10 at Everett Events Center, 2000 Hewitt Ave.

• 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 11 at Tulalip Conference Center, 10200 Quil Ceda Blvd.

• 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 12 at Lynnwood Conference Center, 3711 196th St. SW

Coordinated by the Workforce Development Council, Snohomish County (WDCSC) United Way of Snohomish County and Snohomish County Executive Office, the resource fair is designed to offer assistance to families and individuals impacted by the current economic crisis.

More than 25 nonprofit and public agencies offering a variety of services will be present at each event.

Participants will have access to individual consultations as well as group sessions and workshops on 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. “We’re 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.

“We have to help families gain access to the resources they need to get through these difficult times,” said Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon.

Participants 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.” Admission and all services offered are free of charge.

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