Missouri to use stimulus money for jobs program

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- The state Department of Health and Senior Services plans to spend $2.8 million over 14 months to help older Missourians get jobs.

Agency officials said Tuesday it's the first non-transportation federal stimulus project to get started in Missouri. The stimulus money is expected to boost the jobs program's funds by 23 percent. State officials think the extra funding will help about 300 more people secure jobs.

The program serves people 55 and older with incomes of up to 125 percent of the federal poverty level. It covers their salaries while they are trained for jobs.

According to the state agency, it usually takes 27 months before participants move into unsubsidized employment.