This news update is brought to you by the City of Long Beach. To find out more about City programs, projects, initiatives and services, please visit longbeach.gov. To find events near you, please visit the City calendar at www.longbeach.gov/events. And follow us on social media @longbeachcity.
Long Beach Launches Job Support Program for Residents Impacted by Wildfires
By Staff Writer
Published on Tue, Nov 18, 2025
Long Beach is offering paid work and career training for residents affected by the January 2025 Southern California wildfires.
The Department of Economic Development & Opportunity has opened an employment and training program designed to give residents a fresh start. Local leaders say the goal is to create practical pathways into stable jobs while helping people rebuild their lives after the disaster.
Through the Long Beach Workforce Innovation Network, the program will offer paid, on-the-job experiences with local employers. Ten eligible residents will be able to work up to 300 paid hours, gaining real-world skills in a supportive setting.
For those interested in longer-term career shifts, LBWIN will also provide up to five training scholarships, each worth as much as $7,500. The scholarships can be used to earn credentials in fast-growing fields such as healthcare, information technology and advanced manufacturing.
Job seekers can learn more or apply by contacting Nakawa Shepherd, Career Center Manager, at Nakawa.Shepherd@longbeach.gov or visiting the LBWIN Adult Career Services Center (4811 Airport Plaza Dr., Ste. 120). Applications will stay open until funding runs out.
Local businesses are also being encouraged to join in by hosting program participants. To learn more and participate as a host employer, business owners are encouraged to contact Courtney Chatterson, Business Engagement Officer, at Courtney.Chatterson@longbeach.gov.
City officials emphasize that the initiative is meant to build opportunity while strengthening the local talent pipeline, supporting both residents and the broader economy as Long Beach continues moving forward.
The program is funded by a $130,000 federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act grant, which supports training, education and employment services across the country.
For more information on workforce programs and services in Long Beach, residents and employers can visit longbeach.gov/workforce.
