Workforce Solutions East Texas Announces Assistance to Child Care Services Program Participants, and Distribution of COVID-19 Health and Safety Educational Materials
Workforce Solutions East Texas • March 20, 2020
Workforce Solutions East Texas offers families taking part in our Child Care Services (CCS) program guidance, and educational information to combat the spread of COVID-19, as well as how to manage service needs due to changes they may be experiencing with their employment or child care center operations.
The CCS program subsidizes child care for low-income families, promoting long-term self-sufficiency by enabling parents to work or attend workforce training or education activities. It also educates parents about the availability of quality child care, which enhances children’s early learning. More than 4,000 children in East Texas are served by the WSET Child Care Services program and we are focused on the safety of every child and assisting program participants with any transitions necessary to continue services.
“We are working with our child care services providers daily to ensure a continuum of care for currently enrolled children, as events arise that may lead to a temporary change in a parent’s work, education, or training status,” said CCS Program Director, Ann Haines. “We invite our customers to check our web portal regularly for updates regarding their services. We are working to expedite all transfer requests, or temporary suspensions of service and if any parent is unable to record their child’s attendance at a facility, we will work with the child care provider to verify attendance, if needed. We are here to help you continue your child’s care.”
CCS participants may submit inquiries about their care through our web portal at https://childcare.easttexasworkforce.org/ or via email at easttexas.ccs.customers@gmail.com. If a child care center is closed or not accepting enrolled child(ren), parents may review our provider list to see if another CCS provider has capacity for a transfer.
WSET staff have distributed vital information to CCS child care centers and parents in the 14-county region of East Texas related to COVID-19. An educational brochure was produced and made available to all parents of children enrolled in the Child Care Services program entitled, “What Parents Need to Know About COVID-19.” It included COVID-19 safety basis; what parents should do at home to fight the virus; examples of alternative activities for the family as they are practicing social distancing; and suggested items for parents to include on their grocery lists. Along with the brochure, coloring books themed, “Hooray for Handwashing,” were provided and coloring sheets depicting safety for coughing, sneezing, and having a fever.
“Our families are the anchor point of our communities. Businesses depend upon a skilled and healthy workforce. That workforce depends on its families, both blood and the surrounding community,” said Doug Shryock, Director of Workforce and Economic Development. “WSET is here to serve our communities and our families, through support to our businesses, in the most effective ways possible.”
WSET continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation and has created a web area for updates on service changes and availabilities to job seekers, employers, and program participants at www.easttexasworkforce.org/COVID-19. Workforce centers began closure to the public earlier this week on March 19th with anticipation to remain closed through May 1st.
For questions about CCS service updates, contact our team for assistance at easttexas.ccs.customers@gmail.com
or 1-800-676-8283. For more information on services for job seekers and employers impacted by COVID-19, contact our WSET Centers Director, Mary Ann Rojas at (903) 561-8131.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY IS THE LAW
Workforce Solutions East Texas is an equal opportunity employer/program and auxiliary aids
and services are available upon request to include individuals with disabilities.
TTY/TDD via RELAY Texas service at 711 or (TDD) 1-800-735-2989/1-800-735-2988 (voice)
When Latavia Harris unexpectedly lost her job, she found herself facing a moment of uncertainty. The disruption was more than financial—her plans for the future were suddenly placed on pause. Yet even in that difficult moment, Latavia chose resilience. She made the same decision thousands of East Texans make each year when navigating job loss: she applied for unemployment. That simple step became the bridge to something much bigger. Through the unemployment process, Latavia was connected to the RESEA (Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment) program at Workforce Solutions East Texas. RESEA provides structured guidance and support to job seekers receiving unemployment, equipping them with the tools to navigate the job search process and overcome barriers that may prevent them from returning to the workforce. In the program, staff helped Latavia refresh her resume, strengthen her interview skills, and explore new career pathways. As she gained encouragement and direction, she began to rebuild her job prospects. That journey led her somewhere she never expected—to a role within the very organization that had helped her rebuild. Today, Latavia serves as a Career Navigator for the WIOA Youth program at Workforce Solutions East Texas, joining the ranks of a team she once turned to for support. In her new role, Latavia feels a special connection with the young adults she serves. Having recently been in a similar position herself, she understands their fears, their doubts, and the courage it takes to begin again. This lived experience fuels her commitment to help them succeed, so they too can experience how Workforce programs can change a person’s future for the better. “All of the programs in Workforce do our community well,” Latavia shares. “It helps us be able to do the work and get back to work.” Latavia speaks openly about the difference her future coworkers made during her time as a participant. Their backing, encouragement, and support played a major role in helping her pursue a new and exciting career path—and find stability after a difficult season. Her transition into the workforce felt different this time, she explains: “One of the things I could tell was different in coming to Workforce from like ten years ago to when I had to come back this summer, was it was very open, very welcoming. You knew that they wanted to help you get back to work.” Being met with genuine care reshaped how she viewed workforce development—and her own goals. “It was like, wow— I want to be part of a team that is happy about what they are here doing, is happy to impact lives,” she reflects. “They wanted to genuinely help me and were happy to help me. So, I was like when I am back to work, this is the type of team I want to work with.” Latavia’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the long-term impact of workforce development. Its value extends far beyond reemployment—it fosters confidence, builds futures, strengthens families, and contributes to the stability of communities across East Texas. What began as a setback became a calling. Latavia now helps others take their next steps forward, carrying with her a lived understanding that the right support at the right time can transform a moment of crisis into a story of resilience, renewal, and purpose.
Texas added 7,300 nonfarm jobs in November to reach a total of 14,321,000 positions. Over the year, the state added 146,300 jobs for an annual nonfarm growth rate of 1.0 percent, outpacing the national growth rate by 0.4 percentage points. Texas’ civilian labor force registered at 15,938,500 after adding 59,500 people since September 2025 and reaching a new record high level for the series. Over the year, Texas’ civilian labor force has added 206,800 people. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in Texas registered at 4.2 percent. “As Texas employers add thousands of jobs, TWC programs can help them grow, develop, and retain a skilled workforce,” said TWC Chairman Joe Esparza. “Initiatives like Skills for Small Business and the Skills Development Fund are training Texans for in-demand jobs that will cement Texas’ reputation as the best state in the nation for doing business.” The Private Education and Health Services industry had the largest private sector over-the-month increase in November after adding 5,700 jobs. Professional and Business Services added 3,900 jobs over the month while Manufacturing added 2,300. In addition, the Construction industry posted an annual growth rate of 2.8 percent in November, which was the highest of any major industry. “Texas' increasing job numbers are encouraging, and it's vital that these are good jobs that provide family-sustaining wages and benefits for Texas workers. We must continue to prioritize investments in skills training and development to ensure that all Texans can access these opportunities and share in the state's prosperity,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Labor Alberto Treviño III. “As we celebrate this growth, let's also remain committed to fair labor practices and worker protections to ensure a thriving workforce for years to come.” The Amarillo metropolitan statistical area (MSA) had the lowest unemployment rate with a not seasonally adjusted rate of 3.1 percent in November, followed by the Midland MSA at 3.2 percent. The College Station-Bryan and San Angelo MSAs both registered at 3.3 percent. “Texas’ job growth in November not only highlights the benefits of our diverse and growing economy but also underscores the importance of making sure Texans can thrive in their communities,” said TWC Commissioner Representing the Public Brent Connett. “TWC and our statewide network of local partners are able to continue strengthening the Texas economy and the foundations of our communities.” Employment estimates released by TWC are produced in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. *All estimates are subject to revision. To access this and more employment data, visit TexasLMI.com.
When Princess Tyeskie first walked into Workforce Solutions East Texas, she carried a deep determination to build a better life for herself and her children. As a single mother with experience in fast food and retail, she was ready for something more—something stable, meaningful, and aligned with the future she dreamed of. Through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Program, Princess was placed at Dr. Willis Longview Footcare Clinic. It was a new environment, but she stepped into it with courage and purpose. Her professionalism, reliability, and warm spirit quickly stood out, and she soon became a trusted part of the team. By the end of her work experience, Princess had gained more than new skills—she had earned a direct hire with the clinic as a Medical Administrative Assistant. It was a life-changing moment that reflected her determination and the power of the opportunities WIOA provides. When asked about her experience, Princess shared: “Through the Workforce Solutions East Texas Youth Program, I was given the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the medical field—the area I aspire to specialize in.” During her Work Experience at Dr. Willis Longview Footcare Clinic, Princess quickly demonstrated the professionalism, compassion, and determination that WSET staff always knew she had. She simply needed the opportunity to show it. The WIOA Work Experience program opened that door. “My dedication and ability to adapt to the clinic’s environment led to me being directly hired after completing my work experience. This achievement reflects my commitment, my work ethic, and my passion for providing quality medical care,” Princess states. Today, Princess stands in a career she once only dreamed about—one that brings stability, pride, and a renewed sense of purpose. Her success is more than a job; it’s a foundation for her children to look up to and build upon. More than that, it’s an invitation—an invitation for others to dream bigger, take the first step, and trust that transformation begins with opportunity. Princess’s journey serves as a reminder that even when life feels heavy, adjusting your crown and moving forward can lead to powerful new beginnings.
