Advice offered for workers who lost jobs

Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2001 | 9:34 a.m.

Workers facing layoffs in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorism attacks can take a few simple steps to better face the dilemma, a local organization says.

The Dolores Huerta Center for Workers, an arm of the Nevada Interfaith Council for Worker Justice, is offering advice, including a "to-do" list, to help people confront the pitfalls of unemployment.

Mayra Ocampo, director of the Huerta center, said the to-do list addresses personal care, financial security, seeking supplemental help and education.

"Share concerns and frustrations with family members and develop a plan of action together," Ocampo said, addressing the personal care issue. "Also, talk to a counselor or clergy to ease the feeling of stress, anxiety and anger."

As for financial security, Ocampo said immediately file for unemployment compensation. Call 486-0350 and stay on the line until an operator is available. Claims are retroactive if a worker can show phone delays or disconnections occurred.

Ocampo also suggested seeking the advice of a credit counselor to avoid financial constraints and to call utility companies, explain the situation and set up payment plans.

"Learn your rights as a worker," Ocampo said. "Review outstanding contracts such as housing, auto and federal assistance programs to initiate new payment plans."

Others raising money to help Las Vegans:

* The Regional Transportation Commission has started handing out coupons for free rides on Citizens Area Transit buses to locals who lost their jobs. The RTC is giving away 10,000 one-way ride coupons at a tent behind the Culinary Plaza at 1630 S. Commerce St.

* The Marine Max boating dealership at 3800 Boulder Highway will hold a boat show and boating poker run Oct. 25-28 at Lake Las Vegas Hyatt Regency Resort and Calville Bay Marina to raise money for victims' families in New York City and Washington, as well as and displaced local workers. For more information, call Marine Max General Sales Manager Jeff Cherry at 732-7297.

* Postnet Express at 2211 N. Rampart Blvd. inside Smith's food store is working with the Salvation Army to raise money to help Las Vegans affected by the recent layoffs. The company will donate $2 for every package shipped and 45 cents for every book of stamps sold.

* The Flooring Showroom of Las Vegas is offering 20 percent off all floor coverings Oct. 17-19 and will donate 10 percent of all purchases those days to the local American Red Cross to support local relief efforts.

* The Tillerman Restaurant at 2245 E. Flamingo Road will contribute proceeds from business operations of Oct. 23 to provide relief for local families of displaced workers and deployed military personnel.