Ms. Pierce informed the Council about a need for placement for displaced employees from the mass closing of Winn Dixie, Harveys, and Kmart stores in our region. This requires a “rapid response” which is a response to massive, sudden layoffs. Needs assessments are being done for these employees deciding what the next step will be for them. Some of those options are returning to the workforce, returning to school for a degree, or getting technical training. WIOA will help these individuals with their resumes, counseling, and interviewing tips.