Connecticut will use a $150,000 philanthropic grant to improve jobs and housing for non-violent offenders, authorities say.
The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation announced Wednesday that this state and 19 other U.S. jurisdictions will participate in the foundation’s $75 million Safety and Justice Challenge to create a fairer, more effective local justice system.
Gov. Dannel P. Malloy said the award will support his Second Chance Society initiative to give non-violent offenders a better chance for job and housing opportunities.
Connecticut was chosen following a highly competitive selection process that drew applications from nearly 200 jurisdictions from 45 states, officials said.
The 20 jurisdictions will work with expert consultants to develop a plan for local justice system improvement. In 2016, up to half of them will receive a second round of funding – between $500,000 to $2 million annually – to implement their plans over two years.
Based in Chicago, The MacArthur Foundation supports creative people and effective institutions committed to building a more just, verdant and peaceful world.
