05/06/2026
Hello Neighbor Expands Employment Programming into Westmoreland County
New initiative connects immigrant and refugee job seekers with local industry
Media Contact:
Anna Tomiczek, Communications Coordinator | [email protected] | 412-689-2815
PITTSBURGH, PA — May 6, 2026 — Hello Neighbor, a Pittsburgh-based nonprofit supporting refugees and immigrants, today announced the expansion of its employment services into Westmoreland County. Through a new partnership with the Economic Growth Connection of Westmoreland (EGCW), the initiative will connect immigrant and refugee job seekers with employers across key regional industries.
The expansion marks a strategic step in addressing both workforce shortages and economic mobility across the region. Hello Neighbor will work with employers in manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and hospitality to place qualified candidates into stable, long-term roles. The program serves individuals already living in Westmoreland County, as well as Allegheny County residents who are open to commuting or relocating for employment opportunities.
The initiative is led by Hello Neighbor senior team members Moshe Sherman and Daria Loshak, both of whom share experience across Hello Neighbor’s resettlement and employment programs, bringing a strong track record of connecting new neighbors and aspiring Americans to meaningful work.
“This expansion reflects what we see every day — that there is incredible talent within immigrant and refugee communities, and real demand from employers who need a reliable workforce,” said Sloane Davidson, Founder and CEO of Hello Neighbor. “By building intentional partnerships in Westmoreland County, we’re creating pathways to economic stability for families while supporting the long-term growth of the region.”
State Representative Eric Nelson shared “The Ukrainian Relocation Program brought small-scale success to the county, and we are working to build on those wins. I'm looking forward to working with Hello Neighbor as we restore our workforce.”
Jim Smith, CEO of Economic Growth Connection of Westmoreland, noted the importance of connecting motivated individuals with regional industries for the county’s economic future: “Westmoreland County employers continue to face real workforce challenges, particularly in industries that are essential to our regional economy. This partnership is about connecting motivated, work-ready individuals with businesses that need reliable talent, while helping more families build stable, productive lives here. When we can align employer demand with people who are ready to contribute, that is good economic development.”
Media interviews and b-roll opportunities are available at Hello Neighbor’s primary office, located at 6587 Hamilton Avenue, , Pittsburgh, PA 15206. On-site interviews are available during the day. Media are encouraged to coordinate in advance to schedule interviews with leadership and staff.
Hello Neighbor’s expansion into Westmoreland County builds on nearly a decade of work supporting immigrant and refugee communities across the Pittsburgh region. This initiative also extends Hello Neighbor’s reach to three counties in Southwest PA: Allegheny, Washington and now, Westmoreland. By aligning workforce needs with underutilized talent, the organization continues to drive both economic impact and long-term community integration.
About Hello Neighbor
Hello Neighbor is a Pittsburgh-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting recently resettled refugees and immigrants. Since its founding in 2017, Hello Neighbor has facilitated over 6,000 program enrollments, serving individuals from more than 65 countries of origin. Through programs focused on employment, education, and community support, Hello Neighbor helps families build sustainable, connected lives in their new communities.
Learn more at https://www.helloneighbor.io/westmoreland-employment-initiative
