Pa. getting $1 million federal grant to cut recidivism risk

(Harrisburg) — Pennsylvania’s prison system will receive a million-dollar federal grant.

The funds from the U.S. Department of Education will be used to identify offenders who are no older than 25 and at a medium to high risk of returning to prison.

State Corrections Department Secretary John Wetzel says the money will go toward increasing employment opportunities for the offenders as they’re released from prison, and providing support as they transition back into the community.

He says the DOC expects to partner with state agencies, community colleges, and workforce development groups to achieve its goals.

Of the nine grant winners nationwide, Pennsylvania’s is the only one involved in criminal justice.