Governor Cuomo announced today that New York state has been awarded $5.4 million from the federal government through the AmeriCorps Program. The money will go to organizations that assist at-risk children, homebound seniors, low-income families, and struggling veterans across the state.
On the Lower East Side, one school and one not-for-profit social service provider are recipients. The Great Oaks Foundation was awarded $717,162 to “improve academic achievement” at Great Oaks Charter School, located at 38 Delancey St. The school has an existing AmeriCorps program to tutor students. Also, Grand Street Settlement received $231,133 to “improve academic achievement and economic opportunities” on the Lower East Side and in Brooklyn. Grand Street has been a longtime recipient of AmeriCorps funding.
The grants were awarded through a competitive application process. Each AmeriCorps member receives a scholarship at the conclusion of his/her service.