[WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has recently awarded grants totaling $1,749,999 to two organizations in Chicago, Illinois to support mentorship programs that help reintegrate previously incarcerated youth and adults back into the community and reduce recidivism.

“The funding announced today will enhance ongoing efforts in Chicago and throughout the state to provide services that support previously incarcerated young people and adults and help them reintegrate back into society through mentorship programs,” Durbin said. “It is critical that the federal government support these programs, which have helped many get back on their feet, find jobs, and become productive members of the community after incarceration.”

Under this announcement, the Safer Foundation in Chicago, Illinois will receive $1,000,000 in funding through DOJ’s FY14 Second Chance Act Comprehensive Community-Based Adult Reentry Program Utilizing Mentors Program. The Safer Foundation will use these funds to support mentoring programs that will address barriers to re-entry and employment, provide job training classes, provide educational services and help reduce recidivism.  

Also under this announcement, the Illinois Department Of Juvenile Justice  in Chicago, Illinois will receive $749,999 in funding through DOJ’s FY14 Second Chance Act Two-Phase Juvenile Reentry Demonstration Program: Planning and Implementation Program. The Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice will use these funds to support youth mentorship programs that will help young adults safely re-enter to society and help reduce recidivism.