GREENFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – The Healey-Driscoll Administration has awarded $2.2 million in Re-entry Workforce Development Demonstration grants to 11 organizations to train formerly incarcerated individuals in various fields.

The grants, funded by Fiscal Year 2026 resources through the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD), are administered by Commonwealth Corporation, a quasi-public agency. This program aims to improve workforce outcomes for individuals re-entering their communities after incarceration.

“We all benefit when individuals re-entering our communities have the relevant skills and experiences they need to succeed in today’s workforce,” said Governor Maura Healey. “These grants will make a positive difference for our employers, economy, and public safety.”

Among the recipients was Community Action of Pioneer Valley in Greenfield, which will partner with the Franklin County and Hampshire County Sheriff’s Offices to provide training. The focus will be on the manufacturing, culinary, social services, and healthcare industries.

Graduates of the program will be placed in roles such as line cooks, recovery coaches, custodial workers, and in production occupations at local businesses, including Franklin Co. Community Development Corporation and Fitzwilly’s Restaurant.

Another local organization that was awarded funding, Second Street Second Chances, Inc. in Pittsfield, will partner with the Berkshire County Sheriff’s Office to offer training in advanced manufacturing and engineering. Successful graduates will secure machinist roles at Onyx Specialty Papers and Unistress Corporation.

The following organizations received funding through this grant program:

Ameelio Emerge Public Benefit Corporation, Boston: $240,000

Community Action of Pioneer Valley, Greenfield: $200,000

Community Servings, Boston: $120,000

Community Workshops, Inc., Boston: $151,00

Interseminarian-Project Place, Inc.: $240,000.00

New England Center for Arts & Technology, Inc. (NECAT), Boston, $240,000

Positive Action Against Chemical Addiction, Inc. (PAACA), New Bedford: $225,000

Quinsigamond Community College, Worcester: $240,000

Second Street Second Chances, Inc.: $89,000

STRIVE Boston, Boston: $240,000

Straight Ahead Ministries, Inc., Worcester, MA: $240,000