U.S. Rep. Chris Smith (R-Hamilton) announced today that Trenton’s Isles YouthBuild Program – which helps young people living in the city earn high school diplomas and secure full-time employment – has been awarded a $700,000 federal grant.

    Last year, it was Smith who helped reverse a mistake made by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development that gave Isles an incorrect score on its grant application, initially costing the program $500,000.  Thanks to Smith’s intervention, HUD reversed its decision and provided Isles with the money. 

    “The $700,000 for Isles announced today is continued reaffirmation of the federal government's strong support for this invaluable city social service,” Smith said. “Over the past several years Isle's YouthBuild program has mentored, counseled, and trained over 400 students. The program has touched countless lives and has had an enormous positive impact in our city. The federal support is warranted and richly deserved."

    “This additional round of federal money will enable Isles to continue to operate YouthBuild, which has helped improve life for scores of Trenton's young people since it was launched in 1996,” he added. 

    YouthBuild relies heavily on funds from HUD to operate its effective program.  At least 80 percent of students enrolled in the program at the 10th grade level obtain their high school diplomas. 

    Additionally, about 75 percent of people enrolled in the job training program have obtained full-time jobs that pay living wages, are serving in the military, or are continuing their education.  This year, about 65 people are enrolled in YouthBuild.  

    “I look forward to continuing to work with my friends at Isles to secure federal financial support for YouthBuild and its other successful programs,” Smith said.