State offers grant funds for veterans employment

From staff reports

The state Department of Labor & Industry Secretary has announced the availability of $800,000 in grant funding to support Veterans Employment Program projects, which are designed to connect veterans with competitive job opportunities and help eliminate barriers to employment.

According to a department news release, the VEP initiative is designed to help veterans, members of all Reserves units and the Pennsylvania National Guard, and spouses of veterans and service members to translate their military skills to civilian life.

Eligible applicants include local workforce development boards, nonprofit and nongovernmental entities, community-based organizations, education and post-secondary institutions, labor organizations, business associations and economic development groups.

Applicants must identify opportunities for new and innovative projects to expand veteran employment opportunities, close funding gaps, or supplement existing initiatives for more comprehensive services.

Applicants also must demonstrate how they would bring together businesses, education, workforce, community and other partners to achieve employment support for veterans.

Applications are due by 4 p.m. Nov. 15.