HARLEM — Harlem's unemployment rate has always been higher than the rest of Manhattan — but with the recession, the unemployment rate in some Harlem districts jumped as high as 18 percent.
"Even before the recession, Harlem had an unemployment problem," said Assemblymen Keith Wright.
To help Harlem residents find jobs, Wright is hosting a job fair at the Harlem Armory Thursday.
Time Warner Cable, Fed Ex and Pepsi are just a few of the 30 companies and labor unions that will be conducting interviews and collecting resumes.
"Many of these jobs are full-time, with benefits and livable wages, the kind of jobs we need more of in Harlem," said Wright. "We have also brought social service organizations into the fold to give access to local job training programs, employment services and benefits."
Wright is encouraging participants to show up early and bring 15 copies of their resume. The companies on hand are looking for people to fill positions ranging from a financial service associate to physical therapist and security guard.
"I hope that our residents will take advantage of these resources and that these companies will see the true value of our vibrant Harlem workforce, filling every job vacancy," said Wright.
The job fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday at the Harlem Armory, located at 142nd Street between Lenox and Fifth avenues. Call (212) 866-5809 or e-mail cmccadden70thad@gmail.com with questions.
