October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. During this time, many organizations acknowledge domestic violence survivors, work to be a voice for victims and encourage others to take a stand against domestic violence. The Newport News Police Department is recognizing National Domestic Violence Awareness Month with an opening event on Thursday, October 1. The event is open to the public and begins at 7:30 p.m. in front of Headquarters, located at 9710 Jefferson Avenue. 

Amongst the speakers are Chief Steve Drew, NNPD Domestic Violence Specialist Cheryl Chavers, and NNPD Domestic Violence Outreach Liaison Neisha Himes. Partnering agencies and domestic violence survivors will also be in attendance. During the event, NNPD will also provide information on the many activities planned for the month. All guests must wear masks and are encouraged to wear purple to show their support.

As the nation and world continue to fight the coronavirus, unemployment remains a critical concern. To address this problem head-on and help residents get back to work, the City of Newport News has launched the CARES Workforce Assistance Program (C-WAP). This innovative new program offers residents workforce development training in industries that are in critical need of employees and that pay minimum wages of $13.50 per hour. The city’s goal is to help over 215 residents obtain industry credentials and employment by the end of the year.

The C-WAP program is facilitated by the Greater Peninsula Workforce Development Consortium and offers residents training in healthcare, information technology, maritime, construction/trades and truck driving. Courses will be led by certified instructors from the following organizations:

The C-WAP Program is open to Newport News residents over the age of 18 who are not tied to compulsory school attendance. Residents must be unemployed or underemployed due to COVID-19 and/or experiencing family hardships resulting from the pandemic. 

Courses begin immediately, with programs blending in-person training at provider sites and virtual sessions. There is no cost for residents to be involved in the program and participants will graduate with national credentials by December 30. Many of the programs have rolling application deadlines. Residents can contact the organizations directly for specific program information.

To provide additional job training and workforce development supports, the city will open the Denbigh Workforce Center at 14851 Warwick Boulevard on Monday, October 5. Residents can visit the center for help researching and applying for jobs, resume writing support, information on training and workforce development programs, and to use the computer lab. The Center will be open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

For more information, residents should email [email protected] or call 757-354-7764.