Human Services Will Provide Mobile Support, Norfolk

Press release from the City of Norfolk:

Posted on: December 8, 2020

NORFOLK, VA – The city’s Department of Human Services (DHS) received state approval to use a mobile unit to serve eligible customers seeking education, training and employment services.

The DHS PowerUp EmployMobile will be the first of its kind in Virginia.

The vehicle will support Norfolk’s VIEW (Virginia Initiative for Education and Work) program, which serves more than 450 residents each year and helps families achieve self-sufficiency. VIEW provides a network of supportive services including career development, education and training, professional attire, equipment and licensing, shelter and transportation assistance, and other help.

“This mobile approach to serving our customers eliminates barriers that currently restrict access to those we serve,” said DHS Acting Director Denise Gallop, “to include lack of transportation, inability to enter buildings freely due to COVID-19 precautions, and lack of child care.”

The EmployMobile will allow staff to take services and supports directly to VIEW clients. Additionally, DHS will be able to make its service delivery model more efficient. The department will use state VIEW funds to procure the vehicle.

“In this unusual season of COVID-19, creating easily accessible, community-based options is necessary and welcomed,” Gallop said.

The purchasing process of the vehicle is underway and should deploy by summer.

For more information about the VIEW program or to enroll, apply online at www.commonhelp.virginia.gov. Or call us to get started: Roniko Richardson, 757-664-6149 or Andrea Burfoot at 757-664-6116.

This press release was produced by the City of Norfolk. The views expressed here are the author’s own.