Life presents both triumphs and adversity. Some face challenges alone cannot overcome. For these individuals, we offer the opportunity for a "Fresh Start." We provide meaningful work to enable people in desperate need to lift themselves up, choose life, and become productive and contributing members of society. In the process of "rebuilding" themselves, they are, in turn, building furniture.

Challenge

Studies indicate for individuals challenged by addiction 30% of those who abuse drugs and alcohol are unemployed and often homeless, according to the CDC. Furthermore, one in six unemployed workers are addicts - twice the rate of those working full-time. Fresh Start exists to create a safe and supportive environment that encourages their road to independence in rejoining society.

Long-Term Impact

Fresh Start restores choice to our workers. Our intent is to establish a rolling advancement program for employees where they progress from craftsman-in-training, to craftsman and ultimately master craftsmen. At the average rate of $10.16 per hour in Connecticut, unskilled workers face placement in the lowest and fastest growing segment of our economy - the service economy. On average, we pay more than $3.50 more per hour. Thus helping aid in the reduction of state cost and welfare benefits.

References

1. http://www.freshstartpalletproducts.org
2. https://www.freshstartpalletproducts.org/

Additional Documentation

https://www.globalgiving.org//pfil/43015/projdoc.pdf

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