The Charitable Foundation is working in conjunction with the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, the Community College System of New Hampshire and the Foundation for New Hampshire Community Colleges to make free job-training available to people who receive SNAP benefits.
The program makes it possible for people to receive training for professional licensing or accreditation in a variety of fields through Manchester Community College. Tuition and fees are covered by federal USDA funds. Charitable Foundation funding is helping reduce barriers for these students by covering the supplies or other things necessary for them to get this education – from stethoscopes or work boots to car repairs so they can get to classes.
So far, 15 people have received licenses or certificates at Manchester Community College and another 45 are pursuing professional credentials. The coalition of partners hopes to broaden the project to other community colleges statewide.
For the full story on these efforts, read this report from New Hampshire Public Radio.