The GJMBC Wraparound Supports Grant Program in Massachusetts is a funding opportunity provided by the Office of Workforce Development (OWD) in partnership with the Good Jobs Metro Boston Coalition (GJMBC) and Unite Us. This program aims to extend wraparound support services to eligible high-quality job training programs in Greater Boston that are affiliated with Backbone Organizations (BBOs). The initiative is part of the EDA’s FY2021 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Good Jobs Challenge, which has allocated funds to train and place 4,618 participants into quality jobs in the Metro Boston region over a three-year period from September 1, 2022, to August 31, 2025. The program specifically targets three industries: Healthcare, Clean Energy, and Child Care.
The primary purpose of the GJMBC Wraparound Supports Grant Program is to provide financial assistance for wraparound services that address the unique needs of job training participants. The program recognizes that many participants require additional support to succeed in their training and subsequent employment. To this end, a "menu" of financial wraparound services has been identified, allowing participants to select the areas where they need the most assistance. The proposed services include transportation, childcare, food, clothing and supplies, communications, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) services, and education support services.
The total amount available for the grant program is $641,606, with each organization eligible to receive $500 per participant served, excluding allowable administrative costs. Organizations applying for this grant must have an established high-quality job training program in one of the targeted sectors and must engage with one of the BBOs. It is important to note that wraparound services are not guaranteed; they are contingent upon the financial and employment needs of each participant as determined by the organization.
Eligible applicants for this grant include nonprofits that operate job training programs in the specified sectors. The program prioritizes organizations that can demonstrate that their participants have a financial need for wraparound support services. This focus on financial need ensures that the funding is directed to those who will benefit most from the additional support.
Submission requirements for the grant application are not explicitly detailed in the provided information. However, interested organizations are encouraged to reach out to the OWD for more information. The evaluation criteria for applications will likely include the quality of the job training program, the demonstrated need for wraparound services, and the organization's engagement with BBOs.
The application process is open until the deadline of October 31, 2024. Organizations should prepare their applications in advance to ensure they meet this deadline. For further inquiries or assistance, applicants can contact Abigail Cross at the Office of Workforce Development via email or phone. This grant program represents a significant opportunity for eligible organizations to enhance their job training offerings and provide essential support to participants in the Greater Boston area.
