One of our strategic goals is to transform lives by focusing on economic empowerment through workforce development. We can make a meaningful impact on the lives of adults with disabilities through S.T.E.P.!

ABOUT S.T.E.P.

The Specialized Training Employment Program (STEP) at the Food Bank of Delaware provides career opportunities for people with disabilities. Through STEP, we have integrated adults with disabilities into our workforce. STEP Leads provide observation, oversight, and support to the team members to ensure their success!

Participants engage in structured activities that align with their job functions and activities.

S.T.E.P. Associates are trained and coached to work at the Food Bank of Delaware in the following areas:

  • Food Bank Farm/Garden
  • Cafes
  • Healthy Pantry Centers
  • Warehouse/Facilities
  • Administrative

This work is close to our mission as people with disabilities experience food insecurity at more than twice the rate of those without disabilities.

APPLICATION PROCESS

APPLY

Check back for new opportunities!

MEET

Participants meet with the S.T.E.P. team to review employment preferences, interests, work history and job description.

MATCH

Once a participant has been matched to a position, they will be supported by Lead staff. Leads provide day-to-day oversight and feedback.

ASSESSMENT

Participants are hired on a temporary-to-permanent basis. The first 60 days serve as an assessment period. After which, suitable associates will become employees of the Food Bank.

 

 

 

WHY S.T.E.P.?

According to the USDA, in 2020 adults with disabilities experienced food insecurity at more than twice the rate of adults who were not disabled.

The employment rate of people with disabilities is much lower than that of those without disabilities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in September 2021 the unemployment rate of people with disabilities ages 16-64 was 9.7 percent compared to 4.7 percent among those without disabilities.

This employment rate exists despite many people with disabilities having the ability and desire to gain employment. Many people with disabilities leave school without community based vocational training that would prepare them for integrated competitive employment.

Thanks to S.T.E.P., participants will obtain skills to aid in acquiring competitive employment, either as an employee of the Food Bank or in the community.

TO LEARN MORE, CONTACT:

Tee Sanders
Specialized Training Director
(302) 292-1305 ext 138
tsanders@fbd.org