GAIN Jobs

* I was quite disturbed by the Feb. 26 article regarding the success of the GAIN (Greater Avenues for Independence) program in L.A. County. Contrary to the results reported, my experience as job placement director for a vocational school has been very different. I see women who want to get off public assistance by going to school or participating in job training. Women prefer a career with a future that will allow them to adequately feed their children, pay for child care, rent and be able to survive. They don’t want to be trapped in dead-end, minimum-wage jobs without any future. They want to be responsible parents who can make a livable wage.

I believe strongly in providing women with full opportunities and am saddened by the current philosophy being promoted by welfare workers that puts a low priority on education and training and a high priority on taking any job.

I feel it is critical that GAIN continue to follow the guidelines stated in law that allow motivated individuals who wish to better themselves the opportunity to be able to go to school to get some skill training in order to enter the labor market with a decent salary.

FRAN LYONS

Van Nuys