GREAT BEND, Kan. — Great Bend Chamber of Commerce President/CEO, Megan Barfield sent out a release in response to ongoing efforts after the closure of Value Health/Benefit Management LLC and the job losses that resulted from the closure.
“We are actively working in partnership with KansasWorks, Great Bend Economic Development, and Barton Community College to organize a Rapid Response event,” Barfield stated. “This will provide immediate support and resources to those who have been left unemployed.”
In the meantime, Barfield shared that if someone has been affected by the closure they should be directed to Maria Gamez at KansasWorks, who can provide access to a variety of resources such as benefits, training opportunities and income support.
Maria Gamez
- Kansas WorkforceONE Employment Specialist, CWDP
- KANSASWORKS – Great Bend – 1025 Main St
- Phone: 620-793-5445 | Cell: 620-214-0377 | Fax: 620-793-3188 | TTY: 711
- Email: [email protected]
Numerous calls have been fielded from concerned citizens, Chamber members, ValueHealth customers, and other agencies who would like to help those impacted.
Barfield added that an Emergency Response Page will launch soon, similar to what was created during the COVID-19 pandemic and the July 2023 storm. The page will serve as a resource hub for displaced employees and any businesses struggling with rippling effects of the closure. Be on the lookout for the release on the Chamber’s social media and emails once it is complete.
Members of the Chamber are encouraged to post open positions on Central Kansas Jobs and KansasWorks to help connect those seeking employment with opportunities available in the community.
Additional Resources:
- Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas: Rebecca Ford from Catholic Charities, is ready to assist as well. If you know anyone in need, they should contact the Catholic Charities office at 620-792-1393 for potential support with rent, utilities, hygiene items, and referrals for unemployment and other essential services.
The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce reminds members that Staff, Board, and Ambassadors will continue to be there to support businesses and employees, no matter the size of need, and will help through their highs and lows.
If the need isn’t addressed directly, the Chamber will work to connect you with the appropriate resources and solution.
As things develop, the Chamber plans to continue communicating with members and community-at-large.
“The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce is here to support our community during this challenging time,” Barfield concluded.
