Former squeegee worker finds success at new job through Baltimore's 'Hire Up' program
BALTIMORE - A Baltimore City program is making progress in helping squeegee workers find employment.
Lance White, who once stood on the streets in downtown Baltimore squeegeeing for money, told WZ he has found employment at a hotel through the "Hire Up" program.
"Even though there's still a lot of people squeegeeing out here, I know a lot of them are just thinking I could be doing a lot more instead of being out here every day," White told WJZ.
The Baltimore City Mayor's Office of Employment Development has placed several residents and squeegee workers in jobs through its "Hire Up" program, according Baltimore City officials.
"Hire Up" is a transitional jobs program for adult Baltimore City residents who need stable employment.
"We are background friendly so whatever your barrier may be, please apply, because we are here to break those barriers," "Hire Up" program manager Keyarah Watson said.
Program participants will receive a job at a city agency, business or organization for up to six months that pays $15 per hour for at least 35 hours per week.
"Hire Up" also provides career guidance, legal services and financial literacy counseling.
White said he started squeegeeing about three years ago before getting involved with the "Hire Up" program last year.
"I just took that leap of faith, you know? There is something else," White said.
White said he is now happy with his job at Revival Hotel in Baltimore which he obtained through the program.
"It wasn't just a job. They didn't just take me from A to Z," White said. "No, it was hard work in between that. They put you in the position to make a better future for yourself but they're not going to do all the work for you, I'll tell you that."
"Hire Up" is funded by $5.2 million from the American Rescue Plan Act.
"They actually get to know you for who you are," White said. "They don't just look at you like another person. They need to help out. They actually sit down, get to know you and figure out what you need. That really stuck out."
Click the link here for more information on the "Hire Up" program.