LOCAL CONTRACTOR DECIDES TO TAKE ACTION TO REDUCE HOMELESSNESS, TRAINING AND EMPLOYING HOMELESS PROGRAM MEMBERS RESIDING AT EAST COUNTY TRANSITIONAL LIVING CENTER (ECTLC) IN THE CONSTRUCTION TRADE

Maurice Ortega, A.M. Ortega Construction, Inc. Owner & President, launches the “East County Empowerment Program. ” During the month-long training, candidates learn about construction in a classroom setting and at Ortega’s state-of-the-art training center in El Cajon, California.

Upon graduation, the program members will become proud employees of Ortega.

EL CAJON, CA– On Monday, May 8, 2023, from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., A.M. Ortega Construction, Inc. Owner and President Maurice Ortega will kick off his unique program to train up to l O ECTLC program members in the field of construction. The owner of this civic-minded company states, “I am excited to be in a capacity to become part of a solution when it comes to the issue of homelessness.” At 8:00 a.m., candidates will report to “boot camp” at the Ortega training center. Mr. Ortega will welcome the candidates, and they will receive their own Personal Protective Equipment, including an Ortega shirt, pants, safety work boots, safety vest, and hard hat. THE PROGRAM IS NO COST TO ECTLC. Also, Mr. Ortega will present a generous $15,000 donation to Ivan Andujar, Acting CEO of ECTLC. “The ECTLC program members participating in Mr. Ortega’s project are blessed to have this extraordinary opportunity,” said Mr. Andujar. “We are profoundly grateful for Mr. Ortega’s vision, generosity, and willingness to help our homeless brothers and sisters. In addition, the large donation will provide services for our men, women, and children residing at ECTLC.” Mr. Ortega notes, “Upon completion of their training, it will be a proud day for these candidates to receive their Certificate of Achievement during the graduation ceremony and then officially join the workforce. And it is our honor to help these individuals get back on their feet.”

When: Monday, May 8, 2023 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

Where: Ortega Construction, Inc. Tom Graham Training Facility 15455 Old Highway 80 • El Cajon, CA 92021

Who: Maurice Ortega, Owner and President of A.M. Ortega Construction, Inc., Ivan Andujar, Acting CEO of East County Transitional Living Center, ECTLC program members participating in the training, local elected officials, and ECTLC supporters.

What: At 8:00 a.m., Mr. Ortega will kick off his unique East County Empowerment Program, welcoming the new program members. Mr. Ortega, Mr. Andujar, and program participants will be available for interviews. Also, media members can shadow one or two candidates throughout the training.

Why: To help the homeless train in construction, graduate, and be rewarded with good, well-paying jobs

Note: On Thursday, May 25, 2023, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., Mr. Ortega will host a graduation ceremony at the training center, details to follow.