FA R M L A B O R I N F O R M AT I O N B U L L E T I N
Voice of the Fields California
January 2013
FREE
Volume 23, Number 1
EDD’s Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers (MSFW) Outreach Program
T
he Employment Development Department (EDD) offers a variety of services to millions of California workers. With different programs such as Job Services, Disability Insurance, Unemployment Insurance, and Paid Family Leave, Californians have somewhat of a safety net to rely on if and when they need help. Some Californians, such as Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers (MSFW), may not know how to go about receiving information on these services, are unable to obtain and process the correct forms needed for the services, or might be unaware they are offered by the EDD altogether. In an effort to ensure all Californians are given equal access and service to EDD programs and information about services that may help them in their community, the MSFW Outreach Program was established.
They are here to help Some of you may have seen EDD employees talking with your employers or coworkers while you’re at work, or out talking with people in your community, or you may have spoken with them yourself. We want to emphasize that they are only there to help you, and you should not be alarmed or worried about their presence. These Outreach Workers spend a majority of time in the community and workplaces providing information to farmworkers about services offered by the EDD and other community centers in your area. Making sure to comply with State laws regarding access, they always receive permission from employers before visiting worksites, and if they intend on visiting your living areas, they need your permission as well. The Outreach worker’s main goal is to help MSFWs by providing information, assistance and encouragement.
What does an outreach worker do? Each outreach worker has a designated area in California assigned Continued on next page