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VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES SNAP EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING

10/25 VOLUME V, PART XXV, PAGE 9

3. Job Search Training

This component strives to enhance the job readiness of participants by providing job seeking techniques and methods to increase motivation and self-confidence.

a. Job Search Training includes activities that may consist of employability skill assessments, employability training, job placement services, or other direct training or support activities, including educational programs to expand the job search abilities or employability of the registrant. The Employment and Training Annual Plan must describe whether the local department will utilize Job Search Training component. If utilized, the process must be described. Examples of some acceptable programs are as follows:

1. Group or Individually coordinated job search training activities may consist of employability assessments, occupational exploration, training and counseling in personal preparation for employability, and training and counseling in techniques for identifying and pursuing employment opportunities (including information on local emerging and demand occupations and job placement services).

2. Nutrition Class

a. Classroom instruction on how to pack a nutritious lunch.

b. Classroom instruction on how to provide nutritious meals for a household and still be employed.

b. The Job Search Training component does not qualify as a stand-alone work program for the purpose of maintaining SNAP eligibility for individuals who are subject to the work requirement.

4. Work Experience

A work experience program is defined as a program designed to improve employability of the household member through actual work experience or training, or both, and to enable individuals employed or trained under such programs to move promptly into regular, public or private employment. Work Experience is a planned, structured learning experience that takes place in a workplace for a limited period. Work Experience may be paid or unpaid, as appropriate and consistent with other laws such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Work Experience may be arranged within the private sector, the non-profit sector or the public sector. Labor Standards apply in any work experience setting where there is an employee/employer relationship, as defined by FLSA.

A Work Experience Program must not provide any work that has the effect of replacing the employment of an individual not participating in the employment or training experience program. Additionally, the Work Experience must provide the same benefits and working

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