Columbia, SC. January 12, 2009 – St. Lawrence Place announces the successful implementation of its Community Career Project, a new program designed to help homeless and low income individuals improve their future employment opportunities. Developed from a proven, research-based model, this program teaches new skills via internships and on the job training programs, with a focus on developing the social skills necessary to increase both the participants’ probability of steady employment and their earning potential.

“During these challenging economic times, we are faced with a significant increase in demand for the support services, life skills and transitional housing we provide at St. Lawrence Place,” said Lila Anna Sauls, Executive Director. “Adults living in transitional housing often lack the experience, training, education, social skills and community relationships required for a job that offers a living wage. Our goal is to equip our residents with the necessary skills to be productive employees in the community.”

In addition to funding support provided by the Sisters of Charity Foundation, the Community Career Project will benefit from two upcoming fundraisers: a Lowcountry Oyster Roast on March 6 and an Angel’s Tea on May 1. According to Tom L. Runge, Board Chair of St. Lawrence Place, “Proceeds from these events will be used to support both our new Community Career program and ongoing community focused efforts. Because this very worthy organization successfully addresses the issue of homelessness on a proactive, program-oriented basis, St. Lawrence Place makes the Midlands a better community for us all.”

For more information on either event or to learn more about how to participate in the Community Career Project, contact Becca Smith at (803) 256-3999 or bsmith@stlawrenceplace.org.

About St. Lawrence Place

Serving homeless families in the Midlands since 1989, St. Lawrence Place is a 501(c)(3) organization that focuses on transitioning families from homelessness to permanent housing by teaching each family the skills necessary to be self-sufficient, to further education, and to enhance employability. St. Lawrence Place can be found on the Internet at www.stlawrenceplace.org.

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