State Gives $1.1 Million To Anti-Poverty Programs In Hempstead

Various programs in the Village of Hempstead are receiving $1.1 million as part of a state plan to help communities develop locally driven strategies to reduce poverty and increase economic opportunity.

The money comes from the Empire State Poverty Reduction Initiative, and will fund a bevy of projects in the village, with many receiving $100,000 or more.

"We are empowering communities to connect people with opportunities that help move them on a path out of poverty toward economic independence," said Gov. Andrew Cuomo. "I commend Hempstead for their efforts to bring meaningful change to their community and I look forward to these programs delivering results."

"This state funding will be instrumental to helping our village implement a proactive strategy to aid our residents in need," said Hempstead Mayor Don Ryan. "Thanks to Governor Cuomo's support, we will be able to create programs that will spur positive change throughout Hempstead."

The nine programs approved for funding are are:

• Community Development Corporation of Long Island, $110,000: Financial literacy and long-term coaching sessions will be provided to low- to moderate-income families.
• Family and Children's Association, $110,000: A college and career readiness program will help high school students attain placement test scores needed to avoid remedial non-credit college courses.
• Morrison Mentors, $98,000: This after-school program will provide students with STEM enrichment classes and peer-to-peer mentoring.
• The Interfaith Nutrition Network, $109,000: Mental health and substance abuse counseling will be provided to very low-income and homeless individuals who face multiple barriers to accessing services.
• Hispanic Counseling Center, $125,000: Bilingual community health workers will help reduce challenges and barriers for community residents.
• Leadership Training Institute, $125,000: Vocational training leading to gainful employment will be provided to adults. Participants will receive various skills training, cognitive behavioral training, professional mentorship, vocational training materials and resources.
• Town of Hempstead Department of Occupational Resources, $125,000: Village residents 18 and over will be guided through sector-based career pathways by offering education and training in demand-driven occupations such as health care, business services, manufacturing and hospitality.
• Village of Hempstead Community Development Agency, $200,000: A community empowerment resource center will provide resource and referral services to individuals and families struggling to maintain the basic needs of safe housing, health, safety, food and clothing.
• Woman's Opportunity Rehabilitation Center, $98,000: Women at risk of incarceration and ex-offenders will be provided vocational job training and soft skills training to increase employment opportunities and reduce recidivism.

"Reducing and defeating poverty in the village is critical to Hempstead's success," said Hempstead Town Supervisor Laura Gillen. "This funding will help to support community organizations as they work to improve the lives and opportunity for many in our area."

Photo: Patch