WJTV-TV Jackson

Senator Hyde-Smith announces $2.7 million for YouthBuild program

By DeAngelo Vaxter 

JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) - Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith announced the award of almost $2.7 million to support three YouthBuild education and training programs in the Mississippi Delta.

Hyde-Smith says, "The YouthBuild program has a positive impact on Mississippi by offering youth opportunities to advance their education and gain valuable workplace skills. I'm pleased the Labor Department has approved these resources to continue offering opportunities to more youth in the Mississippi Delta."

$2,699,228 in grants have been awarded to:

*  Mississippi Action for Community Education, Inc., Greenville ($1,098,000)

*  Mississippi Delta Council for Farm Worker Opportunities, Inc. Clarksdale (($901,228)

*  Gateway Community Development Corp., Yazoo City ($700,000)

YouthBuild helps at-risk youth ages 16-24 complete high school or state equivalency degree programs. They also earn industry-recognized credentials for in-demand occupations in construction and other industries.

Senator Hyde-Smith supports the funding for the program and seeks information on ensuring benefits for rural communities.