Maryland secures $13.9 million in federal funding to expand workforce development and educational opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Governor Wes Moore, alongside Maryland’s congressional delegation, announced $13.9 million in federal funding to support workforce development and postsecondary education for individuals with disabilities. Administered by the Maryland Department of Disabilities, the funding aims to improve employment outcomes and increase access to resources for individuals with disabilities.
From the press release:
“Team Maryland continues to drive federal investment in Marylanders’ futures. These new funds will bolster the use of evidence-based strategies to engage individuals with disabilities in careers of their choice, enhancing inclusion, economic mobility, and career growth,” said members of the Maryland Congressional Delegation.
The US Department of Education allocated $9.4 million from the Disability Innovation Fund to develop a data-sharing tool. The tool will connect students with disabilities to critical services, including vocational rehabilitation and long-term support. The Social Security Administration also allocated $4.5 million from the Interventional Cooperative Agreement Program. This funding will assess the effectiveness of outreach and support for children with disabilities who are eligible for both Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income. The goal is to enhance access to transition services, ultimately improving competitive, integrated employment outcomes for these young individuals.
This partnership with the federal government aims to create new pathways for Marylanders with disabilities, empowering them to thrive in meaningful careers and contribute to the state’s economy. Federal funds ensure Marylanders with disabilities have the resources and support to succeed in the workforce and education.
Governor Moore marked October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month, noting disabled individuals are twice as likely to be unemployed. Maryland is removing employment barriers to give young people with disabilities a fair chance at financial independence and opportunity.
For more information on the Disability Innovation Fund grant, visit ed.gov.
To learn more about the Interventional Cooperative Agreement Program, visit ssa.gov.
