Long Beach has launched a program to match people who are out of work with potential employers, officials announced Tuesday, March 31.

The online program, called “Work Long Beach,” allows people to list their skills and the hours they’re available. During the coronavirus pandemic, the focus is on unemployed childcare workers, who will be paired with families, including those with people who are considered “essential workers,” like those in public safety and healthcare.

“Our hope is that all of the families who provide critical services and risk their lives for our community,” Mayor Robert Garcia said in a statement, “are able to obtain the childcare that they need during this health crisis.”

After workers complete the initial registration process, a city employee will review the applicant’s background information and enter them into the database if they are approved.

Along with businesses, families and parents can search for available childcare workers and see availability and rates.

Qualified childcare workers can begin the registration process by calling 562-570-3702 or visiting pacific-gateway.org/longbeachworks.