Govind Tekale
Governor Newsom recently provided $11 million to six California organizations focused on helping people who face tough barriers to employment. The funding supports programs that provide job training and work experience for veterans, people with disabilities, English-language learners, and at-risk young adults.
“By providing opportunities for those who have been overlooked in society, we’re helping more Californians build lasting careers that strengthen our workforce,” said Employment Development Department (EDD) Director Nancy Farias.
The money comes from the Employment Social Enterprise program, which focuses on businesses that both sell products or services and provide jobs with support for people struggling to find work. These organizations don’t just offer job training – they provide actual paying jobs where people earn wages while building work skills.
What makes these programs special is the extra support they offer. Participants can access housing assistance, childcare, mental health services, and job coaching – addressing the practical obstacles that often prevent people from keeping jobs.
The six organizations receiving funds include Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fresno ($1.91 million), Fresno County Economic Development Corporation ($1.7 million), Pacific Asian Consortium in Employment ($1.91 million), Plan of Action ($833,829), Inland Southern California 211+ ($1.73 million), and Stanislaus Equity Partners ($1.91 million). An additional $1 million went to REDF, which will provide technical help and coordinate efforts between the six organizations.
This funding represents more than just job training – it’s part of California’s broader economic strategy called “California Jobs First.” This initiative works across the state’s 13 economic regions to create better-paying jobs and build a more fair economy.
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“This grant allows us to do something more. It gives us the opportunity to offer a true hand up,” said Jeff Negrete from Catholic Charities. “We can help people take real steps forward — to find meaningful work, experience the power of the paycheck, and gain the tools necessary to shape a better future.”
The investment also connects to California’s “Master Plan for Career Education,” launched in April 2025. This plan aims to create clearer paths to good jobs for all Californians, with or without a college degree. It includes innovations like a digital “career passport” that helps people showcase their skills and experience to employers.
Each organization brings a unique approach. Plan of Action focuses on creating opportunities for autistic talent in creative industries. Stanislaus Equity Partners is developing a regional modular home manufacturing facility that provides both jobs and affordable housing solutions.
Maria Kim, President of REDF, emphasized the deeper impact: “This program goes beyond just creating jobs; these grantee organizations help restore dignity, expand opportunity, and build a more inclusive economy.”
The grants are fully funded by the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act through the U.S. Department of Labor.
