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Daily News

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll administration announced $2.2 million in Re-entry Workforce Development Demonstration Grants awarded to 11 organizations, including two in Western Mass., to train 389 formerly incarcerated individuals returning to the workforce for job opportunities in culinary, construction, manufacturing, hospitality, and healthcare.

“We all benefit when individuals re-entering our communities have the relevant skills and experiences they need to succeed in today’s workforce,” Gov. Maura Healey said. “These grants will make a positive difference for our employers, economy, and public safety.”

Locally, Community Action of Pioneer Valley in Greenfield will receive $200,000 to partner with the Franklin County and Hampshire County sheriff’s offices to offer a training program with a focus on the manufacturing, culinary, social services, and healthcare industries. Successful program graduates will be placed in roles as line cooks, recovery coaches, custodial workers, and production occupations at Franklin County Community Development Corp., Fitzwilly’s, Whitman Properties Inc., Nortek Inc., and the Center for Human Development.

Meanwhile, Second Street Second Chances Inc. in Pittsfield will receive a $89,000 grant to partner with the Berkshire County Sheriff’s Office to offer a training program with a focus on the advanced manufacturing and engineering industry. Successful program graduates will be placed in machinist roles at Onyx Specialty Papers and Unistress Corp.

“These investments will help support formerly incarcerated individuals through job training and employment opportunities,” Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones said. “By supporting formerly incarcerated individuals through targeted training and employment opportunities, we are helping to break down barriers to employment, support critical skill building, and offer pathways to successful careers.”