Job Corps center closing in Cherokee because of safety concerns

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Job Corps center closing in Cherokee because of safety concerns

WIS - Columbia,SC,

by Chantelle Janelle

http://www.wistv.com/Global/story.asp?S=6268032

Concerns about health and safety have led officials to close the job-

training center for teens and young adults at Cherokee.

Esther , national director of the US Department of Labor's

Job Corps program, says about 150 students at the Oconaluftee Job

Corps Civilian Conservation Center will be offered transfers to

centers in North Carolina and other states.

That's until officials decide whether the center in Cherokee can be

reopened.

Job Corps offers free education and vocational training for people

ages 16 through 24. Students can earn a high school diploma or GED,

learn job skills and receive other assistance. Students also are

paid a monthly allowance.

says the facility is run down and hasn't been maintained.

She says problems include visible mold, " deplorable " restrooms, and

roof damage. says she hasn't heard of any reports of injury

or sickness because of the conditions