For Immediate Release

For more information:

February 14, 2002

Lynette Locke (410) 396.9928 
Gerald Grimes (410) 396.6770

WHAT:

To train employees at new stores opening up across Baltimore City

WHEN:

February 14

WHERE:

The Govan's location at 5315 York Road

WHO:

Mayor's Office of Employment Development

Background:

Employ Baltimore was instrumental in involving community organizations and neighborhood leaders in the recruitment and training process, ensuring that job seekers in the immediate and surrounding areas could be served. As a result, forty-five people have been hired as Save-A-Lot stock clerks.

Impressed by the reception given to Save-A-Lot executives by Baltimore City officials, Dan Kimack, manager of corporate communications for Save-A-Lot said that, "Baltimore's City leaders have been very proactive in helping us find appropriate sites so that Save-A-Lot can meet the very important needs of diverse city neighborhoods. We feel very fortunate to have the support of City officials and look forward to growing our presence in Baltimore," stated Mr. Kimack. Carrying the 1250 most popular food items, each Save-A-Lot store is efficiently operated by about 25 employees.

Upon learning of Save-A-Lot's interest in locating stores in the City, Employ Baltimore quickly came to the aid of Save-A-Lot by contacting prospective employees primarily receiving TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), hosting job fairs, conducting pre-screening for applicants based upon job qualifications, and providing space for Save-A-Lot to conduct its orientation for the selected employees. Ladonna Vaughn-Crowl, recruiting specialist for Save-A-Lot appreciated the assistance stating, "The relationship with Employ Baltimore has been very beneficial for us. We are able to work with the community to get people employed." Employ Baltimore's Case Workers work closely with citizens, seeking employment and have first hand knowledge of their skills and job experiences enabling quick and effective linkages to employment opportunities.

Save-A-Lot is the nation's largest and fastest growing food store. The next Baltimore City location scheduled to open is on Eutaw Street in Bolton Hill. Employ Baltimore is currently preparing its workforce to fill these positions as well.