$15M For Homeboy Industries Workforce Development

Dear Friend,

I am proud to announce that the 2021 state budget allocation of $15 million to Homeboy Industries is now being implemented.

This $15 million investment was part of the Build Back Bolder California state budget and it's the first time the state has invested in Homeboy Industries and its mission. The funding is intended to expand the organization’s workforce development programs and ensure the success of the individuals that walk through its doors. As part of our efforts to increase skilled training opportunities and critical social services for formerly incarcerated individuals, this new partnership between the state and Homeboy Industries brings hope, opportunity and healing to many.

"We are tremendously grateful for the steadfast support of Assemblywoman Wendy Carrillo," said Father Greg Boyle, Founder of Homeboy Industries. "The men, women and youth we serve are seeking a second chance but the long list of barriers they are up against, is overwhelming. Working together with Assemblywoman Carrillo, we can continue to open doors for more individuals so they can transform their lives."

Over the next three years, the funding partnership between Homeboy Industries and the State of California will expand Homeboy's workforce HUB to create more jobs at each of the eleven social enterprises that Homeboy currently operates. The investment will also work to expand existing support services including critically important housing assistance, education, mental health support, legal services, trauma-informed arts programming, tattoo removal and case management.

I am proud of this effort, and personally, as a young girl who grew up on the Eastside of Los Angeles amid the war on drugs and the height of gang violence, I am grateful to play a role in the healing of our community and ensuring that the California state budget is a reflection of values.

Please feel free to contact me regarding this or any state issue of concern to you.

In service,

WENDY CARRILLO
Assemblymember, District 51
Chair, Assembly Budget Subcommittee No.4 on State Administration
Chair, Select Committee on Young Girls and Women of Color
Vice Chair, Legislative Progressive Caucus