Astoria Job Corps cuts ‘for government convenience'
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — All 350 students of will be sent home by the end of June due to a 'aligns with the President's 2026 budget,' according to a news release that cites former Oregon Congresswoman and current
From construction to manufacturing, gives young people a tuition-free shot at a future. Job Corps offers an array of certifications in various trades as well as assistance in searching for opportunities post-certification. Students can also receive military training while simultaneously receiving help to fund their education. Despite this, in mere weeks, hundreds — many near certification — will be forced out.
Tongue Point is one of 99 centers shutting down nationwide under a Department of Labor order. At least 100 students will be required to leave by Thursday, June 5, with the remainder set to be evicted by the end of the month.
The Department of Labor said this program ran a $140 million deficit in 2024 and projected it to cost $213 million this year. In their contract termination, the Labor Department said this is 'completely for the government's convenience.'
'Just to like pick up and leave is so hard on anybody, it causes an enormous amount of trauma,' Terri Steenbergen who leads a nonprofit for survivors of domestic violence, said.
Community members such as Steenbergen have taken it upon themselves to step in and support the displaced students. Steenbergen has begun raising funds and collecting duffle bags, snacks, and hygiene items to help Job Corps' students and families.
Tongue Point's director, Mac McGoldrick, is
'This administration speaks a great deal about developing the American workforce and increasing the training for skilled trades, and increasing apprenticeships and union placements and that's what Job Corps does,' McGoldrick said. 'You know, I still have a glimmer of hope. I'm not gonna give up until I have to.'
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