Homeless Veterans To Benefit From More Than $15 Million In Job Training Grants

by Mike Volpe
US DEPARTMENT OF LABOR

WASHINGTON — Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis today announced the award of 64 grants totaling more than $15 million that are aimed at providing approximately 8,600 homeless veterans nationwide with job training to help them succeed in civilian careers. The grants are being awarded under the U.S. Department of Labor’s Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program.

“Today, the Department of Labor is taking an important step to help homeless veterans reintegrate into the American labor force,” said Secretary Solis. “This is a complicated challenge that requires an ‘all hands on deck’ response. Our grantees span communities across the country, from the District of Columbia to Puerto Rico, and we salute them for their commitment to assist those who’ve served.”

Funds are being awarded on a competitive basis to state and local workforce investment boards, local public agencies and other groups, including faith-based and community organizations. These recipients are familiar with the geographic areas and populations to be served, and have demonstrated that they can provide effective help to homeless veterans.

To assist homeless veterans with reintegration into the workforce, in addition to the new grants announced today, during the upcoming program year, the Labor Department will provide more than $19 million in funding to support continuing HVRP grants. 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. HVRP is recognized as an efficient and effective program, and is the only federal program that focuses exclusively on ensuring the employment of veterans who are homeless.

Grantees of this program coordinate their efforts with various local, state and federal social service providers to maximize the assistance available for homeless veterans. More information on the Department of Labor’s unemployment and re-employment programs for veterans can be found at http://www.dol.gov/vets/.