Job Corps Nationwide Closures Risk Homelessness For Hundreds of Youth

The U.S. Department of Labor has announced a nationwide phased pause and shutdown of the Job Corps program by June 30, citing financial challenges and a surge in serious incidents such as violence, drug use, and sexual misconduct. This decision impacts over 130 centers across the country, including locations in New Jersey, Milwaukee, Skagit County, Washington, and Manchester, New Hampshire, leaving thousands of low-income young adults, many of whom are homeless or at risk of homelessness, uncertain about their futures and housing. Students and program leaders have expressed deep concern, highlighting the program's role in providing education, job training, and vital shelter to vulnerable youth. Efforts to halt the closures have seen some temporary legal reprieves, such as a federal judge's order blocking the shutdown of the Cascade Job Corps in Skagit County. Critics argue the program is costly and troubled, but many participants and advocates emphasize the critical support and opportunities Job Corps offers to marginalized young people. Local authorities, including the mayor of Manchester, have pledged to ensure students affected by the closures receive care and assistance during this transition.