When businesses face the difficult decision to lay off workers or close their doors, Rapid Response provides critical support to ease the transition for both employers and employees. This proactive strategy is coordinated by local Workforce Development Boards like Workforce Southwest Washington (WSW), in partnership with the Washington State Employment Security Department and a network of community organizations. The goal is twofold: to support impacted workers and to help businesses explore layoff aversion strategies whenever possible. These efforts are strengthened through collaboration with local WorkSource centers, community colleges, unemployment insurance claims centers, and labor organizations, all working together to stabilize the regional workforce and minimize disruption.
Early engagement is key to creating a smoother transition for everyone involved. That is where the role of board and committee members becomes especially valuable. With their strong connections to employers throughout the region, these individuals help WSW activate Rapid Response services quickly and effectively. When support is mobilized early, it transforms layoffs from a reactive crisis into a coordinated opportunity to help workers move forward.
WSW frequently steps in during these moments of change. In the last quarter we have provided services to a variety of employers including Job Corps, Hood Packaging, Roadmaster and Camas School District. Situations that call for a response can range from a slowdown in operations to major layoffs, like the recent announcement of Hood Packaging’s Vancouver facility closure.
Hood Packaging has been a long-standing part of the community, operating locally since the 1940s. They are a unionized manufacturer that produces a wide variety of bags and packaging products used by major national brands. Their closure impacts approximately 94 hourly, represented employees, along with about 20 salaried staff in areas such as purchasing, management, and human resources.
To support those affected, WSW coordinated three Rapid Response sessions. These sessions provided critical information on unemployment insurance, healthcare options, career navigation resources, and access to support services. In addition, we coordinated a hiring event to connect impacted workers with new employment opportunities. Thanks to the Rapid Response sessions and hiring event, many staff members affected by the Hood Packaging facility closure have already secured new job opportunities. Others are actively engaging with the resources and support available through our WorkSource Centers.
Efforts like these are part of WSW’s ongoing commitment to ensuring that local workers are supported through transitions and have access to meaningful career paths that contribute to the region’s economic resilience.
For businesses seeking ways to retain their workforce during periods of economic uncertainty, the Washington State Employment Security Department’s SharedWork program offers a proactive solution. SharedWork allows employers to reduce employee hours while enabling workers to receive partial unemployment benefits. This approach helps companies retain skilled staff and maintain operations during downturns. Employers are encouraged to apply early to take full advantage of the program. For more information or to submit an application, visit: https://esd.wa.gov/get-financial-help/sharedwork-program.
Facing an economic challenge in your business? WSW is here to support you with resources that help ease the transition for both employers and employees.
Reach out to our Director of Business Services, Darcy Hoffman at dhoffman@workforcesw.org or 360.608.4949
