Economic Security for All (EcSA) is a state funding stream for Workforce Development focused on poverty prevention and reduction. It enhances and aligns existing programs and resources in local workforce systems across the state to move individuals from poverty, or at risk of falling into poverty, to self- sufficiency.
*Data points from 7.01.2023 – 3.31.2024
Washington’s 12 Local Workforce Development Boards partner with the state’s Employment Security Department and more than 160 local community service providers to ensure customers receive all the services for which they are eligible, including workforce training, education and certifications and support services.
Bipartisan legislation, House Bill 2230, codified EcSA into law this year, ensuring certainty for job seekers experiencing poverty to access funds that help them:
More information on EcSA can be found in
ESD’s 2023 legislative report.
EcSA funds primarily assist traditionally underserved communities, including BIPOC populations, and strive to create generational economic success for families.
The EcSA program was enhanced in the 2023 session to add $2.89 million in funding to increase employer outreach to better connect job seekers with the training and opportunities to fill the quality jobs located in their communities, which is particularly critical for residents in rural areas and traditionally underserved populations. Employer outreach is a key component to the success of EcSA.
Accountability is built into EcSA. Annual reporting ensures the program is meeting its goals to help EcSA participants reach self-sufficiency, as well as codifies multi- agency work in coordination with the Poverty Reduction Steering Committee, the legislative executive work-first poverty reduction oversight task force, to measure indicators of yearly progress toward poverty reduction, reducing income inequality and achieving an equitable and just economy.
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Our city relies on our volunteers for everything from staffing special event, such as Freedom Fest and Merry Main Street, to assisting departments with daily activities, such as shelving library books, filing records or using GIS equipment.
