An award from the state’s groundbreaking CA RISE initiative will strengthen on-the-job learning for our culinary trainees and bolster the social enterprise businesses that employ them.
Homeward Bound of Marin was among 61 awardees for this program aimed at breaking barriers to employment and economic growth for people who have faced challenges like unstable housing or a history of incarceration.
Funds from CA RISE will support development of career ladders, in-depth training and further support for Fresh Starts Culinary Academy graduates employed in The Key Room event space, production of Wagster Treats dog biscuits and other culinary projects. The initiative also provides strategic planning support as Homeward Bound prepares to open a new social enterprise hub with a manufacturing bakery, additional event space and a small teaching kitchen.
“We’re thrilled to receive a grant from CA RISE to create opportunities for people who have previously been economically disenfranchised,” says Paul Fordham, our Co-Chief Executive Officer. “We’re honored to be among these 61 employment social enterprises who are disrupting the cycles of homelessness and poverty through supportive training environments and pathways to meaningful employment.”
He gathered with other representatives in Sacramento this month to kick off the CA RISE initiative. Last year, our social enterprises offered employment and support for workplace success to 56 people who people building skills for the future.
About Homeward Bound of Marin
Homeward Bound of Marin is the primary provider of Marin County homeless shelters and services for homeless families and individuals in Marin, California. Learn more about our programs here.