PONTIAC, Mich., January 27, 2011 – Grace Centers of Hope, one of southeast Michigan’s oldest and largest homeless shelters, has been awarded $25,000 from the Walmart Foundation’s State Giving Program.  The funds will be used to support the nonprofit organization’s newly created Grace to the Finish retail-training program, which provides on the job training and life-skills development for clients who are emerging from homelessness.  The check presentation will take place at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, February 1, 2011 at the Grace Centers of Hope Thrift Store, 26740 Dequindre Rd., Warren. 

“The clients whom we serve have significant barriers to employment, including histories of homelessness, long-term welfare dependence and education below the eighth-grade level,” said Pastor Kent W. Clark, CEO of Grace Centers of Hope.  “Thanks to the generous support of the Walmart Foundation, we can provide rapid access to a job training program that allows participants the opportunity to return to society as productive and responsible citizens.”

Grace to the Finish is offered to clients enrolled in the nonprofit’s Life Skills and After Care Programs.  It is administered through each of the four Grace Centers of Hope Thrift Stores, which are located in Macomb and Oakland Counties. It initially will be available to more than 300 men and women during the first grant cycle. 

The program provides men and women with job readiness training and ongoing case management support.  This includes recognition for excellence in job performance, rewards for length of service and the opportunity to develop critical life skills.  These skills help each participant learn responsibility within a work related environment such as team building and interaction with co-workers and customers. 

In addition, educational opportunities through accredited college classes and retail seminars will provide participants with essential training for future job growth within the Thrift Stores or the retail service industry at-large.

Through the State Giving Program, the Walmart Foundation supports organizations with programs that align with its mission to create opportunities so people can live better.   State Advisory Councils, made up of local Walmart associates in each state, review all eligible grant applications and make funding recommendations to the Foundation.

“Walmart is very proud to support Grace Centers of Hope and their innovative ‘Grace to the Finish’ program,” said Michael Collischan, Regional General Manager, Walmart.  “As a company we operate globally, but always give back locally.  We at Walmart are glad to be in a position to assist these individuals get back on their feet and learn valuable job skills.”

Grace Centers of Hope operates with an annual budget of $4.4 million. Grace Centers of Hope and its affiliated programs do not accept government funding.  One hundred percent of the organization’s revenue is obtained through private support, its Thrift Stores and fundraising initiatives.

About Philanthropy at Walmart

Walmart and the Walmart Foundation are proud to support the charitable causes that are important to customers and associates in their own neighborhoods.  The Walmart Foundation funds initiatives focused on education, workforce development, economic opportunity, environmental sustainability, and health and wellness.  From Feb. 1, 2009 through Jan. 31, 2010, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation gave more than $512 million in cash and in-kinds gifts globally, $467 million of which was donated in the U.S.  To learn more, visit www.walmartfoundation.org. 

About Grace Centers of Hope

Giving hope to the helpless since 1942, Grace Centers of Hope is one of southeast Michigan’s oldest and largest service provider for the homeless. Today, Grace Centers of Hope is considered one of the leading faith-based organizations in Southeastern Michigan, confronting issues of homelessness, addiction, poverty, abuse and spiritual emptiness on a daily basis. On any given night, Grace Centers of Hope provides transitional and emergency shelter to 150-200 men, women and children, in addition to serving more than 100,000 meals each year. Grace’s $4.4 million yearly budget is maintained solely through corporate and private donors, exclusive of any government assistance.  For more information, or to make a donation, visit www.gracecentersofhope.org. 

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