FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Atlanta, GA – The Center for Working Families (TCWFI) is proud to be chosen as one of six organizations that will together serve nearly 600 men and women leaving incarceration as a part of STRIVE’s International, Inc.’s new, innovative reentry program. The initiative is funded by a $4.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor. STRIVE was one of only four intermediary organizations chosen nationwide to serve adults aged 25 and over leaving incarceration.
The grant enables TCWFI, along with five other community-based partners across the country, to launch a new program, STRIVE Fresh Start, in six cities: Atlanta, GA; Greenville, NC; New Orleans, LA; Philadelphia, PA; San Diego, CA; and Waterbury, CT. The program incorporates evidence-based interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, legal services, and transitional jobs into STRIVE’s proven employment model.
“We are excited to continue to expand our portfolio of services to meet the needs of the community and ensuring the success of those reentering the community is a big part of that,” says Che Watkins, TCWFI’s President & CEO. “This grant will enable us to meet specific needs while providing a supportive bridge to success.”
“Men and women leaving incarceration face enormous challenges in obtaining good jobs, supporting their families, and rebuilding their lives,” says Phil Weinberg, STRIVE’s President & CEO. “With this grant from the US Department of Labor, STRIVE Fresh Start will provide men and women leaving incarceration with access to the training, credentials, and support needed to thrive in the modern workforce and to become positive contributors to their communities.”
This grant will support a three-year initiative aiming to serve men and women leaving incarceration.