A YWCA program is helping area woman get back on their feet.

The agency’s Employment Readiness and Training program helps prepare women to reenter the workforce with employment experience at WE Shine, a commercial and residential cleaning service run by the non-profit.

The program offers hands-on coaching and the women are expected to adhere to the same standards set by any other employer, including timeliness and proper attire, said Meredith McCoy, who oversees the program.

The YWCA started the program in 2011 when it saw a need to help women with lapses in employment from homelessness, addiction, incarceration and other issues. It has already reached more than 50 women, ages 20 to 60, many of them low-income and single parents, McCoy said.

The women work at WE Shine for three to six months before supervisors help them apply for permanent jobs through weekly meetings.

“It’s successful,” McCoy said. “We have women transitioning successfully into full-time employment.”

A wish granted from the Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration would help organizers buy the women proper clothing to work, rags and other cleaning products and a commercial vacuum cleaner.

“Our biggest wish of course for these women is to find them permanent employment,” McCoy said.

WE Shine works with property owners and realtors to clean vacant homes and area businesses. McCoy encourages home and business owners to have an open mind about using the service and said the staff is supervised during jobs.

“Our clients are very satisfied and happy with the services,” she said.