The City of Portland is offering Supportive Workforce Opportunity Grants aimed at funding local organizations that provide supportive workforce opportunities for individuals referred from Portland City and Multnomah County shelter sites. These grants are designed to assist individuals who may have recently experienced homelessness and are in various stages of addressing mental, physical, or substance use-related health issues. The program emphasizes the importance of population-sensitive approaches to workforce development, ensuring that the needs of these individuals are met through tailored support and training.

The primary purpose of the Supportive Workforce Opportunity Grants is to expand the capacity of existing supportive workforce, apprenticeship, or skills training programs. Organizations can use the funds to accommodate additional participants or to modify program guidelines to better serve individuals who have experienced homelessness. The grants will support programs that provide work opportunities for a minimum duration of six weeks, with flexible weekly time commitments that can be defined by the grantee organization. Each program will include essential components such as individual case management, ongoing supportive employment services, and compensation for participants.

The total funding available for this grant program is $240,000, with individual grants not exceeding $80,000. Organizations located in Oregon and Washington that provide services in Portland and Multnomah County are eligible to apply. This includes nonprofits, local governments, and other entities that meet the program's criteria. There is no matching requirement for the funds, making it accessible for a variety of organizations to apply without needing to secure additional funding.

Submission requirements for the grant include a detailed application that outlines the organization's existing programs, the proposed use of funds, and how the program will address the needs of the target population. Applicants will need to provide information on their capacity to deliver supportive workforce opportunities and demonstrate their understanding of the challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness.

The evaluation criteria for the grant will focus on the organization's ability to effectively implement supportive workforce programs, the clarity of the proposed plan, and the potential impact on the target population. Applications will be assessed based on their alignment with the program's objectives and the feasibility of the proposed activities.

The deadline for submitting applications is September 30, 2024. Organizations interested in applying should ensure that they meet all eligibility criteria and prepare their applications well in advance of the deadline. For further information, potential applicants can visit the City of Portland's website or contact the grant administrator via email.

Overall, the Supportive Workforce Opportunity Grants represent a significant opportunity for organizations in the region to enhance their workforce development efforts and provide critical support to individuals transitioning out of homelessness. By focusing on tailored, supportive programs, the City of Portland aims to foster a more inclusive workforce that addresses the unique challenges faced by this population.