Michiganders facing employment barriers could find support with a new state program which offers $14.6 million in aid.
The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity is set to launch its Barrier Removal and Employment Success program on May 22.
The grant initiative works with employment-help organizations across the state to create pathways to sustainable careers, while addressing talent shortages.
"The $14.6 million Barrier Removal and Employment Success investment provides critical resources to partner organizations across the state who are joining us to close equity gaps and ensure all Michiganders have a path to economic prosperity,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin. “By removing barriers to employment, we are creating more opportunities for Michiganders to succeed in good-paying careers and helping the state’s employers address critical talent shortages.”
Funding will facilitate diversity, equity and inclusion, increasing opportunities for at-risk individuals, including the Asset Limited Income Constrained Employed (ALICE) population.
“The ALICE population are individuals working, yet still struggling to make ends meet or are one crisis away from poverty – and the Barrier Removal and Employment Success program is an innovative solution that directly addresses barriers that prevent these Michiganders from securing and retaining good-paying jobs,” said Stephanie Beckhorn, director of LEO's Office of Employment and Training. “Participants will receive the support they need to secure a brighter future for themselves, their families and their communities.”
The program supports Gov. Whitmer’s MI New Economy plan that set a goal of lifting 100,000 families out of working poverty during the next five years. The grant program also supports the recommendations of the Michigan Poverty Task Force, whose goal is to address the disparities that affect Michiganders’ abilities to afford necessities such as housing, childcare, food, health care and transportation.
Interested organizations are encouraged to apply for funding. Eligible applicants include, but are not limited to, community-based organizations, educational institutions, Michigan Works! agencies, private for-profit agencies, private non-profit agencies, and other established, experienced providers of supportive services.
The application window opens Monday, May 22, 2023 and closes is Monday, July 24, 2023, at 5 p.m. EDT. Awards will be announced September 15, 2023. The grant period is Oct. 1, 2023 – Sept. 30, 2025.
