By Bob Katzen

The U.S. Department of Labor announced the awarding of more than $57 million in grants nationwide to organizations that help veterans experiencing homelessness find meaningful employment and assist them in overcoming barriers to transition back successfully into the workforce. The grants include $1,506,323 for the Bay State including $501,834 For Volunteers of America of Massachusetts in Jamaica Plain; $184,489 for the Massachusetts Military Support Foundation in West Barnstable; and $820,000 for Veterans Inc. in Worcester.

The funding will support 112 continuation grants totaling more than $37 million as well as 56 new three-year grants totaling some $20 million.

“The pandemic further exposed the difficulties faced by our nation’s homeless veterans,” said U.S. Secretary of Labor and former Boston Mayor Marty Walsh. “The Homeless Veterans’ Reintegration Program grants announced today will fund initiatives that help our veterans—particularly those in underserved communities—get the training and support they need return to the workforce and use their skills to make valuable contributions to our society.”

Proponents also noted that the awards will enable recipients to provide a wide range of services to homeless veterans and those at risk of homelessness including learning occupational skills, attaining apprenticeships or on-the-job training opportunities and receiving job search and placement assistance.