Dear neighbors, I hope you’re staying safe and enjoying the new year! Preparations for the upcoming legislative session have kept me busy. This afternoon, I attended the Minnesota Council on Disability’s legislative forum with several of my colleagues. We heard powerful stories from Minnesotans with disabilities and their loved ones. Their stories will inform our work at the Capitol.  CNA Training OpportunityOne of the most in-demand jobs in Minnesota right now is certified nursing assistants (CNAs). The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated staffing pressures across our health care system, and many facilities are in need of additional CNAs to provide care to patients. In response to the recent surge in COVID-19 cases, the State of Minnesota launched a new program to encourage people to pursue careers in health care. The goal is to recruit, train, and deploy at least 1,000 new CNAs by the end of January. If you’re interested in joining the next generation of health care workers, the State of Minnesota is offering to pay for tuition, fees, books, transportation, and other qualifying expenses associated with CNA courses. You can learn more about this opportunity and how to enroll here.  Health Care Career FairOn a related note, CareerForce is holding a 14 Days of Health Care Career Fair from January 18 to January 31. The goal is to connect people who need work with employers who are currently hiring. During the two-week event, Minnesotans can speak with health care providers, share their resume, and apply to current openings. Registration information and a list of the employers who are participating is available here. Blood Donations NeededThe U.S. is facing its worst blood shortage in more than a decade. The amount of blood drives has declined due to the pandemic, and recent storms and staffing shortages have exacerbated the problem. As a result, the Red Cross and other organizations have been forced to limit the blood products they distribute to hospitals. If you’re able to donate blood or platelets, the Red Cross is encouraging people of all blood types, but especially Type O, to give in the next few weeks. You can make an appointment on the Red Cross’s website, download the organization’s Blood Donor app, or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. You can also donate blood at regional and community blood banks. If you have questions or feedback, the best way to reach me is through email at rep.ami.wazlawik@house.mn. You can also call my office at (651) 296-3018. Sincerely, Ami Wazlawik
State Representative |