JFS Unveils New Mobile Unit

The Miami County Job and Family Services’ (JFS) staff has a new way of getting information and services to residents across the county.

A mobile unit purchased for the department using county American Rescue Plan Act, or ARPA, funds was unveiled in late April at the county Courthouse.

“The vehicle was purchased to support the citizens in Miami County any way we can. We will be able to utilize the Mobile Unit for Rapid Response Services and Disaster Relief assistance. We will help individuals find employment and connect them with our community partners,” said Sara Bowers, JFS director.

The bus was purchased used from the Miami County Educational Services Center, its interior updated to accommodate an office-like setting and its exterior spruced up with a wrap. The cost of those efforts was around $84,000.

“JFS staff and our workforce staff will be the individuals on the bus and making the referrals to our partners, employers and nonprofit agencies. We will help individuals find employment and connect them with our community partners,” Bowers said.

The JFS staff worked with the county commission to make the vehicle a reality, said Commission President Ted Mercer.

“I am so glad to add this vehicle to our county's Fleet Inventory. I almost classify this Mobile Unit as a first responder. In fact, this unit will be able to be deployed to Miami County businesses and industries who have a large lay-off of their workforce,” said Mercer. “This mobile unit can be used to canvass areas of the county where people may not have transportation that need assistance with family needs, such as Medicaid assistance, rent and food assistance.”

The vehicle also will have scheduled stops in communities. The schedule will be posted on the JFS website and its Facebook page.