The Department of Social Services' "Work First Program" in Cumberland County hosted what the department described as ‘the job fair, of all job fairs.'

More than 4,500 people attended the job fair.

After divorcing her husband as the economy hit rock bottom, Melody Girard was forced to give up her farming business and role as a stay-at-home mom. Now, she is looking for a new job and says the competition is tough.

"So many people are applying online, and it is so difficult to get in front of people with a name and face," Girard said.

Girard and Jessie Blount say the "Work First" job fair gave them that chance.

"There are [many] vendors out here, so you get information about what they all are looking for," Blount said.

Although many people agree the job fair does provide opportunities, some people say there are still challenges.

"A lot of companies are not hiring. They are taking resumes or hiring part-time or paying $8 an hour, but there doesn't seem to be any professional positions available," Samaria Richardson said.

And some job seekers are getting desperate.

Perry Mackenzie has been out of work for six months and soon his unemployment will also run out.

"I have until December, but I'm getting worried because after that I'm up a creek," Mackenzie said.

But Mackenzie says he's hopeful this job fair could provide a paddle.

There were about 100 business representatives looking for employees and taking resumes.

The fair offered a variety of jobs including those in healthcare, education and technology. Positions started at entry level and went to supervisory personnel.