Costa Instrumental in Securing $12.3 Million for Fresno Bridge Academy

Fresno, CA – Congressman Costa, who was instrumental in both drafting the language for the Supplemental Nutrition and Assistance Program (SNAP) Employment and Training Pilot Projects and including it in the 2014 Farm Bill received good news for his district. As a result of his tireless efforts, Fresno County Department of Social Services will receive $12.3 million as part of the SNAP Employment and Training Pilot Projects to build on the existing efforts of Fresno Bridge Academy.

"The SNAP Employment and Training Pilot Project was inspired by a program started at the Fresno Bridge Academy to transition local residents off of food assistance. The program's high rate of success has brought it national attention and resulted in additional funding to continue assisting Valley families in becoming self-sufficient.

"The innovative manner in which Fresno Bridge Academy reduces families' need for food assistance can, in large part, be attributed to Peter Weber. His pioneering spirit, leadership, and vision made Fresno Bridge Academy and its program a nation-wide example of how to empower individuals to achieve productive self-reliant lives.

"It is also important to thank President Obama, Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack and Under Secretary Kevin Concannon for recognizing that the program developed at Fresno Bridge Academy not only has a successful local track record, but that it can be applied throughout the nation. Their support of the program means that, with proper funding, Americans who rely on food assistance can become independent."

The County of Fresno Department of Social Services will build on an existing program called the Fresno Bridge Academy to offer multiple career-driven services, including education, job training, support services, subsidized and unsubsidized employment, retention services, ongoing case management, and financial incentives for milestone achievements. The program is a multi-generational approach that includes adult development topics such as nutrition and health management, parenting skills, financial literacy, and services to ensure children are excelling in school. The grants will fund projects for three years.

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