First Coast Food Bank Faces Employee Loss Amid Federal Budget Cuts: Impact on Jacksonville Community

Epic-Cure, a food bank in Northeast Florida, recently faced significant challenges after a freeze on federal funding stopped their new employment program for seniors. This freeze meant they had to let go of three new employees who were hired to learn job skills and help at the Putnam branch.

The program, known as the Senior Community Service Employment Program, was designed to assist low-income seniors over the age of 55. It aimed to provide them with essential workforce skills. Sunny Mulford, the executive director of Epic-Cure, expressed her disappointment, stating that the funding was critical for the organization, especially since they often struggle to find enough staff.

Just three days after the new hires started, a freeze was announced, ending the program unexpectedly. Mulford explained that they had gone through a lengthy application process to set up the program, only to have it paused almost immediately.

The loss of these positions is a blow not only to Epic-Cure but also to the seniors affected. Mulford shared a poignant story of one man who felt hopeful about learning new skills, only to have that opportunity slip away.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of June, 3% of seniors aged 55 and older were unemployed. This situation raises concerns, especially as federal programs like SNAP and others face cuts. Mulford warned that while Epic-Cure currently relies on private donations, the increased demand for food assistance due to these cuts will affect everyone.

In the broader context, the National Caucus and Center on Black Aging shared that the senior employment program receives funding from both federal and non-federal sources, highlighting the nationwide impact of potential funding halts.

As community organizations face these tough times, local food banks are stepping up. Epic-Cure is working hard to alleviate hunger, even securing a refrigerated truck from Feeding America to help distribute food more effectively. Despite financial challenges, they are determined to support their community and ensure that seniors and families in need receive the assistance they deserve.

For more information on employment programs and services for seniors, you can visit the U.S. Department of Labor’s website.



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