U.S. Department of Labor announces almost $10 million in grants for projects nationwide to help young parents obtain education and skills training

WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis today announced 13 grants totaling $9,899,200 aimed at providing young parents with employment and training opportunities to provide a better future for themselves and their families.

"Today's funding will help young parents support their families by offering training and education opportunities that lead to jobs," said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. "These programs will pay dividends today and in the near future as young parents gain the education and skills they need to become financially self-sufficient and then pass these successes on to their children."

Today's grants will fund demonstration projects designed to provide educational and occupational skills training that leads to employment and economic self-sufficiency for mothers, fathers and expectant mothers ages 16 to 24. Several projects funded today will serve individuals who have been involved in the court, child welfare or foster care systems, or who are homeless or have been victims of child abuse.

In addition to education and training, participants will have access to an array of additional resources. These may include mentoring, case management and supportive services aimed at reducing barriers to education and employment. Supportive services include child care, transportation, health care and parenting education classes.

Today's awards were made available through the Fiscal Year 2008 and 2009 Department of Labor – Department of Health and Human Services Appropriations bill. For more information on Department of Labor training programs, visit http://www.doleta.gov.

Editor's Note: A list of grantees is below.

Young Parents Demonstration Grants