ReMerge of Oklahoma County recently received the grant from Google.org to fund diversion programs for families battling cycles of trauma, poverty and incarceration.
ReMerge of Oklahoma County recently announced the nonprofit received a $100,000 grant from Google.org to fund comprehensive diversion programs to restore mothers and families who battle cycles of trauma, poverty and incarceration. The organization provides treatment, recovery options and career support to high-risk and high-need mothers facing non-violent felony offenses in Oklahoma County.
“ReMerge graduates are living proof that hope-centered programs can change lives,” Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt said. “I am grateful for Google’s continued investment in our state and am proud of ReMerge for giving Oklahoma families the resources they need for a fresh start in life.”
How they’ve helped
Since 2011, 182 women who parent a total of 455 minor children have graduated from ReMerge, saving the state of Oklahoma more than $44 million. And this month, the organization expanded the number of women they can serve to 75 women at a time.
The grant will fund education and workforce development programs for ReMerge participants including laptops for staff, transportation, GED testing, and post-secondary training through Oklahoma CareerTech and other occupational certification programs.
“We know that joblessness is the number one indicator for reoffending,” ReMerge Executive Director Jenna Morey said. “With Google’s help, we are bolstering our workforce training to provide women with the skills they need to pursue the careers of today and in the future. Opportunity for economic mobility allows entire families to thrive.”
Research shows by the year 2025, as much as 70 percent of Oklahoma jobs will require some type of post-secondary education or training.
“Through a holistic approach to recovery, education and employment, ReMerge plays an important role in our community and builds strong foundations for its clients,” Andrew Silvestri, Google’s head of public policy and community development, said. “Google is proud to support ReMerge as they remove barriers for justice-involved Oklahomans on their path to success.”
