WASHINGTON, D.C. – June 20, 2012 – (RealEstateRama) — Congressman Paul Tonko announced today that the federal government has awarded a grant of $118,800 to the Albany Housing Coalition through the U.S. Department of Labor’s Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program. The grant will provide job training for homeless veterans to help them succeed in civilian careers.
“Our veterans have sacrificed so much to protect the freedoms and values we hold dear, we cannot turn our backs on them when they return home,” said Congressman Tonko. “This investment will help ensure our local veterans are given the tools and skills they need to find work and climb their way out of homelessness. I commend the Obama Administration for making veterans a top priority, and will continue to fight in the halls of Congress to ensure we provide veterans the resources they need.”
“We are pleased to be able to continue to provide homeless veterans in the capital district with this critical resource,” said Joseph Sluszka, Executive Director of the Albany Housing Coalition Inc. “In the coming year we expect to resolve barriers to employment for 44 homeless veterans and assist them in securing meaningful employment and housing. Our goal is to ensure that 70% or more of those we assist retain their employment for 9 months or more and end the cycle of homelessness.”
Today’s announcement by Department of Labor Secretary Solis included 64 grants nationwide totaling more than $15 million aimed at providing approximately 8,600 homeless veterans with job training. Funds are awarded on a competitive basis to state and local workforce investment boards, local public agencies and other groups, including faith-based and community organizations. Under these grants, homeless veterans may receive occupational, classroom and on-the-job training, as well as job search and placement assistance, including follow-up services.
For more information on the U.S. Department of Labor’s Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program, click here.
