Bridgeport, CT – Today, Representative Jim Himes (CT-04) announced that Bridgeport-based workforce development nonprofit, The WorkPlace, was awarded a $2,499,999 Pathway Home grant through the U.S. Department of Labor.
“We see tremendous outcomes when invest in our workforce – our families are happier, our local economy thrives, and our community is stronger,” said Congressman Jim Himes. “That’s why I’m thrilled that The WorkPlace earned this Pathway Home grant with my support to bolster its re-entry programs for formerly incarcerated individuals, career readiness training for veterans returning from service, and partnerships with local businesses that generate sustainable employment pathways for traditionally underserved residents.”
Authorized by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, the Pathway Home grant program equips local governments and non-governmental organizations with the tools to reintegrate into society adults returning from incarceration. This grant will empower such residents to improve their employability outcomes by developing technical skills and earning industry-recognized credentials through The WorkPlace’s career preparation programs.
“We are excited for this opportunity to serve justice-involved individuals and connect them with the skills they need to secure and maintain long-lasting careers,” said Joe Carbone, President and CEO of The WorkPlace. “Participants will have access to occupational skills training in a variety of careers and a chance to earn employer-recognized credentials. We are thankful for all our partners in this project, especially Congressman Himes and Correction’s Commissioner Quiros.”
Congressman Jim Himes represents Connecticut’s 4th District, which includes the communities of Bridgeport, Darien, Easton, Fairfield, Greenwich, Monroe, New Canaan, Norwalk, Oxford, Redding, Ridgefield, Shelton, Stamford, Trumbull, Weston, Westport, and Wilton.