BOSTON ~ Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, along with the Mayor's Office of Returning Citizens (ORC), has announced the distribution of over $900,000 in grants to support reentry in the city. The grants, funded through the city's annual operating budget, will be awarded to community organizations and focus on providing services such as job training, housing assistance, and overall health and well-being for formerly incarcerated residents.

This is the third year that the City of Boston has facilitated these grant programs, which aim to increase access to essential services for individuals returning home from prison or jail. Mayor Wu expressed her appreciation for the work of their partners and emphasized the importance of supporting all residents in their transition back into the community.

City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune also spoke about the significance of these grants, stating that they not only invest in returning citizens' services but also help rewrite narratives and provide second chances for lasting opportunities.

A total of $607,000 will be distributed through Returning Citizen Support Grants (RCS) to 38 organizations. These funds will support a wide range of reentry services for individuals returning to Boston from federal, state, or county correctional facilities. Services include job training opportunities, housing support, peer mentoring, food assistance, and community integration programs.

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José F. Massó, Chief of the Human Services Cabinet, highlighted the importance of their partner organizations in providing these crucial services. He stated that with these grants, they can ensure that returning citizens have access to necessary resources for successful reentry and reintegration into society.

In addition to RCS Grants, the Office of Returning Citizens will also release $300,000 to seven nonprofit organizations through the Returning Citizen Housing Support Grant program. These funds will assist with transitional housing and other supportive housing-related services for individuals returning from incarceration.

Ashley Montgomery, Executive Director of the Office of Returning Citizens expressed her gratitude for this grant opportunity and its impact on returning citizens. She stated that it sends a powerful message of support and value to these individuals as essential members of the community. With this investment, they can expand critical services such as housing, job training, mentorship, and access to basic needs, helping individuals take meaningful steps towards stability and long-term success.

Lori D'Alleva, Program Director of Charlestown Adult Education, Workforce and Reentry, shared the positive impact of the Office of Returning Citizens' housing stabilization funding. She stated that securing stable housing is a catalyst for success in all areas of life and expressed her appreciation for this valuable investment in their work.

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Reginald Jean, Executive Director for Haley House, also expressed his excitement about being a recipient of the Returning Citizens Grant. He stated that it will allow them to continue providing free meals, job training, community resources, and stipends through their Life Foundations Training (LiFT) program. He emphasized the transformative experience this program has on participants and how this grant will enhance their efforts in the reentry community.

Iva Comey, Executive Director of Commonwealth Land Trust, also shared her gratitude for this funding opportunity. She stated that it directly supports their clients in rebuilding their lives and thanked Mayor Wu and the City of Boston for being committed partners in their mission to prevent homelessness.

Mike Curry, Executive Director of Life After Prison, highlighted the significance of these grants in not only reducing recidivism but also restoring hope and creating opportunities for those returning home from prison.

To learn more about supporting Boston's returning citizens or other grant opportunities with the City of Boston, visit their website.

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