Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Louisiana is proud to announce receiving two significant federal grants to better support veterans and individuals transitioning from incarceration. These grants will significantly enhance Goodwill’s ongoing efforts to provide comprehensive support services, training, and employment opportunities to those in need, making a profound impact on our community in all 23 parishes of our territory.
The first grant, awarded under the Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program (HVRP), provides $600,000 annually for three years, totaling $1.8 million. This funding will establish a brand-new program specifically designed to assist veterans who are either in temporary housing or currently experiencing homelessness. The program aims to prepare these veterans for employment and support them in gaining sustainable employment. Goodwill expects to help 225 veterans over 3 years through this initiative.
The second grant is a $4 million Pathway Home 5 Grant that spans three and a half years. This grant will serve 400 individuals who are enrolled between 20 days and nine months pre-release from incarceration. The funding will provide essential training opportunities, incentives, and support services pre-and post-release. This program is an expansion of Goodwill’s current efforts, which already support 300 individuals. The new grant will significantly increase the number of incarcerated individuals served, allowing Goodwill to make an even more significant impact on the community.
“We are immensely grateful for these grants, which will enable us to expand our services and support more individuals in our community,” said Vice President of Mission Services Scottie LeBlanc. “These grants are a testament to the importance of our work and the impact we can make with the support of our community.”
Goodwill Industries of Southeastern Louisiana remains steadfast in its mission of changing lives through the power of work. With the support of these grants, Goodwill will continue to provide vital services to those who need them most, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to fostering a stronger, more inclusive community.