Program To Fund College Education In State Prisons Announced By Gov. Cuomo

New York- Gov. Cuomo announced $7.3 million in award money to fund educational programs at 17 New York State prisons.

The “College-in-Prison Reentry Program” is being funded through the Manhattan District Attorney's Office's Criminal Justice Investment Initiative. It will create more than 2,500 seats for college-level education and training for incarcerated New Yorkers across the state. The program will be funded over the next five years.

"Prison isn't just about serving time for ones crimes. It's an opportunity to help those who have made mistakes rehabilitate and rebuild their lives," Governor Cuomo said. "It has never been more evident that a college education is an important stepping stone to success and by partnering with District Attorney Vance, that success will reach those who never thought they could achieve it. This program not only strengthens the futures of incarcerated individuals and their communities alike, but it will save taxpayer dollars in the long run."

Two local colleges are among those receiving funding, including Jefferson County Community College (Cape Vincent, Gouverneur and Watertown Correctional Facilities) and Mohawk Valley Community College (Marcy Correctional Facility). To read more, click here.