SANTA FE – Today, the New Mexico Human Services Department (HSD) will begin offering new and expanded employment and training opportunities for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients through its provider HELP New Mexico, Inc. 

The employment and training program is available to all SNAP recipients between the ages of 16 and 59, who are not receiving cash benefits through HSD, applying for or receiving unemployment compensation benefits, and who are able and willing to work upon completion of the employment and training program. For more information or to volunteer for the program, contact the Consolidated Customer Service Center at 1-800-283-4465.

“This employment and training program promotes financial independence and improves the security and the safetynet for New Mexicans in need to help transform their lives,” said Angela Medrano, deputy cabinet secretary for HSD.

The statewide employment and training program is voluntary. SNAP recipients in the program will gain skills, receive training and obtain valuable experience that will increase their ability to get a job and transform their lives. The employment and training program provides each participant with an assessment to develop an employment plan, along with educational and training components to help them enter and advance in the workplace.

Descriptions of the available components include:

 Job Search Training – A component that strives to improve job research skills, motivation, and confidence.  Each participant can receive instruction and mentoring in job searches, using job search technology, resume writing, interview skills and appropriate dress and work social skills as part of this component.

• Work Activity – A work activity that is done in exchange for SNAP benefits. It provides the opportunity to acquire general skills, knowledge, and work habits to obtain employment. It is to improve the employability of those who cannot find unsubsidized employment. 
• Work Based Learning – A component of structured work activities, including on-the-job training and an apprenticeship that combines education and/or training and paid work. Unlike regular employment, this requires an additional structured educational activity beyond regular work hours.

• English Language Acquisition – Designed to help English language learners achieve competence in reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension of the English language.

• Work Readiness Training – Work readiness skills may include both foundational skills such as reading for information, applied mathematics, locating information, problem solving, and critical thinking. Or can be soft skills such as personal characteristics and behavioral skills that enhance an individual’s interactions, job performance, and career prospects such as adaptability, integrity, cooperation, and workplace discipline. 

 The Human Services Department provides services and benefits to 1,042,799 New Mexicans through several programs including: the Medicaid Program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families Program, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Child Support Program and several Behavioral Health Services.

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Office of the Secretary  1474 Rodeo Rd.     P.O Box 2348  Santa Fe, NM   87504