The De Muniz Resource Center, a program of the Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency, received a $3,300 grant from the Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund to support transportation access for individuals coming out of incarceration.

 

The De Muniz Resource Center is a one-stop center for Marion County residents seeking successful transition from incarceration back to the community. The grant is a collaboration with the NW HUB bicycle reclamation program. De Muniz Resource Center clients often are in need of transportation in order to search for employment, attend health and mental health appointments or meet other obligations. This grant will provide 50 clients with bicycles through NW HUB. Clients will need to commit to some volunteer hours, where they will learn to build and maintain bikes before they earn a fully refurbished bicycle equipped with fenders, lights and lock.  The grant also provides funds for monthly bus passes for Center clients who are engaged in on-going program services and are in need of bus transportation.

 

“We are so excited for the partnerships our staff at the De Muniz Center have forged to support client success,” said Jon Reeves, Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency’s Executive Director.

 

“This grant provides more than a bike to those needing transportation, it provides a sense of independence and empowerment. They are able to effectively tackle other needs in their lives, such as looking for and securing employment as well as connecting with helpful community services. Furthermore, the contact with the NW HUB management and staff offers a positive connection to a pro-social environment providing the satisfaction of “giving back to their community,” said Craig Bazzi, De Muniz Resource Center’s Transition Services Manager.

 

Mid-Willamette Valley Community Action Agency is the eighth largest 501(c)(3) in Marion and Polk counties and operates seven departments; Child Care Resource and Referral, Community Resource Program (housing division which includes the De Muniz Resource Center), Energy Assistance, Head Start/Early Head Start, HOME Youth & Resource Center, Nutrition First, and Weatherization Services.  To learn more about the Mid-Willamette Community Action Agency visit www.mycommunityaction.org

 

For more information contact Craig Bazzi @ (503) 990-7370 or craig.bazzi@mwvcaa.org