$20 million in additional funds available as part of Obama administration's efforts to end cycle of poverty, criminality and incarceration

Training to Work grants improve employment opportunities for formerly incarcerated adults

WASHINGTON — State and federal prisons release more than 600,000 people each year. Back in society — without the benefits of a steady job — far too many are likely to return.

As part of the Obama administration's ongoing efforts to help Americans who have paid their debt to society rehabilitate and reintegrate back into their communities, the U.S. Department of Labor today announced the availability of $20 million to help improve employment opportunities for formerly incarcerated adults.

This latest round of Training to Work grants will fund coordinated case management, mentoring, education, training, and follow-up services to help those in work-release programs learn valuable skills, earn industry recognized credentials, and find meaningful work with local employers in growing industries.

"Throughout our nation's history, we have always been the land of opportunity, even for those who have made mistakes or fallen on hard times," said U.S. Secretary of Labor Thomas E. Perez. "As a country, America remains strongest when everyone has a chance to contribute to our communities and our economy. These grants extend ladders of opportunity to formerly incarcerated adults to make a positive difference in our nation."

Approximately 14 grants will be awarded in areas with high poverty and high crime rates, including Promise Zones — communities that often have a larger proportion of returning citizens and higher rates of recidivism. Grantees will be required to establish and lead a Career Pathways Collaborative made up of representatives from the workforce system, work-release programs, and employers and/or industry associations. Grantees will also be required to develop strategies to prioritize services for veterans.

These grants build on the Department of Labor's efforts to improve employment opportunities for adults returning from correctional facilities. Since 2013, more than $77.5 million in Training to Work grants have been awarded.

Eligible nonprofit organizations may submit applications through Jan. 15, 2016. Grants will be awarded in Spring 2016. For additional information and to apply, read the full Funding Opportunity Announcement online on Grants.gov.