Township Supports Hiring Our Heroes Program

In recognition of Memorial Day, the South Brunswick Township Council passed a resolution last week in support of America's veterans returning from war. The council expressed the importance of the Hiring Our Heroes program, a nationwide effort to help veterans and military spouses find employment, in partnership with the Department of Labor Veterans Employment and Training Service.

"This focuses on the plight of veterans in terms of the goal of finding employment and providing funding for vocational opportunities," said Councilman Joseph Camarota. "We thank everybody (who served) in light of the Memorial Day holiday."

The Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) program facilitates a cooperative culture of employer support for returning vets by developing initiatives that recognize outstanding employer support. The program increases awareness of laws and policies, resolves conflicts between employers and service members, and acts as an employers' advocate within the Department of Defense, according to the ESGR.

The unemployment rate for veterans in both New Jersey and the U.S. exceeds the overall unemployment rate both state and nationwide, according to township officials. The township will work to spread awareness about the programs and opportunities that exist for South Brunswick's returning soldiers beyond just passing a resolution supporting the idea.

"It's important for our returning troops that served and defended us to get the care and benefits they deserve," said Public Affairs Coordinator Ron Schmalz. "We'll do anything we can to offer our help and provide support for the county workforce programs that will be available to them. We'll make sure we advertise these programs and that our vets know what's available to them."

In supporting the program, council members said it's a small way of showing the gratitude the township has for all returning heroes.

"As a veteran I will stand up for this. It's very important because we'll be having thousands of men and women coming back to the civilian labor force," said Councilman John O'Sullivan. "We'll do anything we can to help them make money for their families."

Click here to learn more about the ESGR program.