More Hillsborough Businesses Eligible For Recovery Funding

TAMPA, FL — At its meeting Thursday, Hillsborough County commissioners broadened the type of employers who can participate in the Rapid Response Recovery job training program.

The commission approved a contract modification with CareerSource Tampa Bay, opening the recovery program to any employer with a Hillsborough County worksite.

This includes for-profit, not-for-profit businesses and public-governmental agencies.

"The action the board of commissioners took today allows us to expand this program," said CareerSource Tampa Bay CEO John Flanagan. "We are looking for community partners who want to be a part of this program and share this program with as many people as possible, so we can overcome the challenges of COVID-19 through training and employment."

The Rapid Response Recovery (R3) program is operated by CareerSource Tampa Bay with monies approved by the Hillsborough County Commission. The program has $21.5 million dollars in aid available.

The CSTB will host two separate sessions for Hillsborough County companies and community partners on the benefits of the Rapid Response Recovery program.

Employers can learn how they can receive up to $12,000 for every employee hired.

Job seekers in Hillsborough County may be eligible for up to $5,000 in educational assistance or paid on-the-job training.

An employer information session will take place Wednesday, Aug. 26 at 9 a.m. Click here to register.

There is no cost to Hillsborough employers or partners participating in the program.

Eligible businesses must offer jobs that meet Florida minimum wage requirements

Eligible job seekers must meet be Hillsborough County residents, economically injured due to the coronavirus pandemic, 18 years old or older, a U.S. citizens or authorized to work.

The CSTB has set up a dedicated phone line to assist at 813-360-1444.

The R3 Contact Center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.