The job I lost
My husband worked for 15 years and myself for 10 years at the same company. Our facility closed in 2009. My husband has found a full-time job but is making 40% less salary than before. I have enrolled full-time in college through a WIA dislocated workers program. I have 1 full year of schooling left to complete,but only 13 weeks of remaining unemployment benefits.
What it's like being unemployed
With me receiving unemployment benefits and also working part-time for minimum wage we have been able to keep up with all of our bills. But, if my unemployment benefits are not extended, I don't know how we will make our mortgage payment.
I think that all dislocated workers who have enrolled in training through WIA should have a guarantee that they will continue to receive unemployment benefits until they graduate/complete their training program. Otherwise, many will be forced to quit school which would be a total waste of time, effort & state/federal funding.
Advice
- Call your local, state & federal representatives to voice your opinion on unemployment benefit extensions.
