Island Short on Summer Workers

ThinkstockPhotos-458248677VINEYARD HAVEN – Business owners on Martha’s Vineyard are struggling to find summer help.

Difficulties with visa programs earlier in the year have caused a dip in worker applicants, but Martha’s Vineyard Chamber of Commerce Director Nancy Gardella said, it’s also a housing issue.

“We are at a crisis to find affordable, adequate housing for both long-term and seasonal employees looking to fill those necessary jobs on the Vineyard,” she said.

According to Gardella, there is always a year-long struggle to find extra help, but the summer months usually bring with them an influx of visa workers who, Gardella said, the island relies on.

Gardella said there are a handful of employers trying to solve housing issues. Some have suggested options off the island, but she said those are not cost-efficient.

“The solutions are not terrific and they only accommodate a fraction of the employees that we need on the island,” she said.

Gardella said dormitories and even a retired docked cruise ship have been brought up, but it looks as though business owners may just have to work more hours this season.



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