The nation’s unemployment rate is at its highest level in 15 years, a report released Friday shows.

More than 500,000 jobs were lost in December and 7.2 percent of Americans were without jobs.

The Manpower office in Johnstown has been inundated with local people looking for work. The company provides staff to many employers in the region.

“I’m hoping to get a job in an office. I have kids at home. I’ll work wherever I can get a job,” said Julie Verner, who was seeking a job.

---

Smart Savings: An Economic Survival Guide

---

A Manpower official said many people who were laid off over the last couple of months are now trying to find work again.

“”We’re getting busy right now,” said Brock Kull, regional director. “They rode it out because they weren’t sure what was really going to happen.”

Kull said he believes the nation will bounce back, but many people may have to settle for their second choice for the time being.

“You have to make ends meet until you can find the ideal job,” Verner said.

Nationally, economist said unemployment could reach 9 or 10 percent before a rebound. Stay with WJAC-TV News and WJACTV.com for continuing coverage.