CHEST Graduation at The Salvation Army

Our Employment Services Program provides unemployed individuals with job readiness training, job search assistance, vocational training, and High School Equivalency services. Clients are also supported in searching out opportunities for specific trainings like the Certified Healthcare Environmental Service Technician (CHEST) program. 

Individuals with the Nationally recognized CHEST certification work in EVS/Housekeeping to maintain clean and disinfected environments in hospitals, nursing homes and other healthcare settings. This 3-week training program developed by the American Hospital Association – AHA, consists of 75% remote learning as well as in-person classes. Eligible CHEST applicants must have at least a High School Equivalent, a minimum of 1 year of Environmental Services, housekeeping, or janitorial experience, pass a background check and have basic knowledge and understanding of internet and email.  

Qualified CHEST participants receive all learning materials, assistance with transportation, a gift card to assist with interview clothes and work attire/uniforms as well as a laptop to use during remote learning classes. Upon completion of the CHEST training, participants are eligible to sit for the AHA CHEST Exam. This professional credential is good for 3 years and must be maintained with ongoing training and education. As an added value, trainees are invited to sit for the National Restaurant Association - NRA ServSafe Food Handler certificate. 

Interested individuals who do not qualify under the unemployment criteria may be eligible for tuition assistance. 

On September 4, 2020, we had the pleasure of giving 4 graduated CHEST students their certifications!

Congratulations to all our recent graduates – we can’t wait to watch you succeed!

For more information on our Employment Services program or The Salvation Army Buffalo Area Services,
please contact Bryanna Gwitt at716-888-6220.