Federal Program Helps People with Disabilities Secure Jobs

This is the fourth in a series of stories highlighting the impact of the federal Community Development Block Grant program, which is celebrating its 50^th anniversary this year.

Robert Stokes can be found making burgers and fries at the Five Guys inside Orlando’s Florida Mall.  He is never late and never misses a scheduled shift, and he is among thousands of Orange County residents who have benefited from the federal Community Development Block Grant.

“I love my job,” Stokes said with a smile. “I come into work on time and work hard. I don’t mess around. I’m a good worker.”

Orange County is celebrating the 50^th anniversary of the CDBG program by shining a light on its far-reaching impacts. The flexible set of federal dollars is used to address community development needs, including infrastructure, housing rehabilitation projects, land acquisition and development for affordable housing, and economic and job opportunities.

Stokes was able to get his job thanks to Primrose Center, a local nonprofit that helps individuals with intellectual and development disabilities find employment. In addition to helping clients find jobs, Primrose offers resume help, job training and life skills. It serves more than 300 people each day across Orange, Seminole and Osceola counties.

The leadership team at the nonprofit admit they would not be able to assist as many people if not for the CDBG program.

In addition to helping clients find jobs, the nonprofit also offers resume help, job training, and life skills.  The nonprofit serves more than 300 people each day across Orange, Seminole and Osceola counties.

“We appreciate the Block Grant’s support,” said Maryann Wittlin, placement specialist manager with Primrose Center. “It enables us to offer this program, which helps a lot of people.”

Demesha Blackman, manager of the Five Guys at Florida Mall, is thankful for Primrose and the CDBG program for helping her secure a reliable, dependable employee.

“Robert is a good one,” she affirmed. “He’s incredibly dedicated and works really hard, and  he’s a good team player.”

Orange County receives roughly $7 million in CDBG funding a year. Over the past five years, the program has funded the rehabilitation of more than 1,000 rental units, provided rental assistance to hundreds of households, built new community centers and health clinics, boosted the supply of affordable housing, and much more.

Learn more about how the County uses grant programs to improve the community by visiting Community Development (orangecountyfl.net). For questions or additional information, email housing@ocfl.net.