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L.A. County Awards Homeboy Industries with $1.38 Million
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Just a few months ago, Homeboy Industries had to layoff the majority of its employees. Times were tough and the money wasn't coming in. The move left around 330 workers, mostly former gangmembers learning new job skills -- Homegirl Cafe, Homeboy Bakery, Homeboy Maintenance, etc. -- without much-needed intervention, social services and tattoo removal that was part of the program for many. Basically, "nothing stops a bullet like a job," as Father Gregory Boyle, the non-profit's founder, would say.
Today Homeboy got a big boost when the L.A. County Board of Supervisors approved $1.38 million. “The organization’s work has generated long-term savings for the County by enabling young people to lead productive lives,” said Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas, who has honed in on lowering the recidivism rate among youth in the County probation.
The funds must go towards administration of social service programs, including case management, mental health counseling, tattoo removal and community, education, employment and legal services. Homeboy has also received a $300,000 grant from the federal government.
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