Acting U.S. Attorney Fondren Announces Grant Awards of Over $2 Million to Support Local Nonprofit Organizations

Memphis, TN - Reagan Fondren, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced today that two Memphis nonprofit organizations were awarded Department of Justice grants totaling more than $2 million.

"These grantees play a critical role in serving citizens of West Tennessee who are or may become justice-involved," said Acting United States Attorney Fondren. "These organizations have demonstrated their commitment to working with the Department of Justice to decrease crime, advance opportunities for ex-offenders, and protect our community. We applaud them for the work they have done and will do in the future."

The grants were awarded as follows:

Smart Reentry: Housing Demonstration Program

The Returning Neighbor's Program, led by the Shelby County Office of Reentry, seeks to provide safe, affordable housing and comprehensive services to formerly incarcerated individuals upon their release. The initiative plans to reduce recidivism rates in Memphis and Shelby County by mitigating barriers to obtaining stable housing and employment. This initiative will operate pre-release through partnerships with the Shelby County Division of Corrections and post-release through collaboration with local programs, such as HOPE Credit Union, Lifeline to Success, and the Hospitality Hub, to help provide safe and affordable housing and a continuum of care that includes vocational training, employment opportunities, and wrap-around services. DOJ Grant Award: $999,101.00.

Office of Justice Programs Community Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiative Site-Based Grant

Heal 901 is an organization that will implement an intensive community violence intervention and prevention program. The purpose of this project is to reduce violent crime in Memphis. Heal 901 helps to bridge the gap between the vulnerable populations of Memphis and the resources available that will allow them to live a more empowered life. DOJ Grant Award: $1,764,992.00.

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