Htay Htay grew up in Myanmar (Burma), graduated from high school, and worked as an office manager in a communications center for over 13 years. She stopped working many years ago to care for her elderly parents. In April 2023, at the age of 65, Htay Htay moved to the United States after winning a visa lottery selection in the immigration system. She didn’t have any family in the United States but found an acquaintance in Worthington she could stay with until she got on her feet in her new country.
Htay Htay was very eager to start working. She first tried a production labor position for a short time but realized it was too physically demanding. Htay Htay needed help looking for different job options, so she was referred to work with a Southwest Minnesota Private Industry Council (PIC) employment counselor with the SNAP Employment and Training program. Job search resources were provided as well as application assistance. Htay Htay was also given a bus pass to help with transportation to and from job search appointments and interviews.
Within one month of enrolling in the program, Htay Htay was hired to work full-time in a local store’s deli and bakery area. With earnings from her full-time job, she became self-sufficient and no longer receives SNAP assistance. Htay Htay is still working full-time. She enjoys being busy and productive, supporting herself, and working in her community.
Amy Khamphanh |Â Worthington Office