November 13, 2007- Training Incarcerated Women to Build Modular Homes
Press Release:
Training Incarcerated Women to Build Modular Homes
Springfield, VT- Vermont Works for Women held the ribbon cutting ceremony to dedicate their second modular home that is the product of a program working with incarcerated women at the Southeast State Correctional Facility in Windsor, VT.
The modular home program at Southeast State Correctional Facility began in January 2005. It provides instruction in finish and frame carpentry, electrical wiring, plumbing, weatherization and roofing through building modular homes that are sold as affordable homes to first-time homebuyers in Vermont communities. It also teaches the program participants life skills for their return to the community. The program meets two important goals of providing offenders with work-based training in fields that pay a livable wage and helps to meet the state affordable housing needs.
Vermont Governor Jim Douglas attended and spoke at the ribbon cutting ceremony offering thanks to the women who were involved in building the home. He also congratulated all of the participating organizations on working together, from state and local government and the profit and non-profit sectors. He also stressed the need for people to stay committed to affordable housing in the state of Vermont.
Customized Structures has had direct involvement in all homes that are being produced through this program including the third home currently being constructed. They have provided full floor plans along with some construction materials to help the process run smoothly. In addition, Customized Structures has provided technical support for the program, from learning the details of building a modular home to assisting with any problems along the way.
“This is a great program to teach women valuable trade skills for when they come back into the community. It gives them confidence in their abilities and teaches them how to support themselves and everyone at Customized Structures is very happy to play a small part in that,” said Amanda Gillen, Marketing Director at Customized Structures.
About Customized Structures: Established in 1984, Customized Structures, Inc. continues to be a leader in the design and manufacture of factory built customized modular and panelized homes for residential, multi-family and commercial homes distributed throughout New England. Customized Structures is very active in the Home Builders and Remodelers Association of New Hampshire, the National Association of Home Builders, and the Building Systems Council among others. For more information about Customized Structures, Inc., call 1.800.523.2033 or visit www.CustomizedStructures.com.
About VT Works for Women: Vermont Works for Women is a nonprofit organization founded in 1987 dedicated to helping women and girls explore, pursue and excel in nontraditional careers that pay a livable wage.
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Phone: (800) 523-2033 ~ Fax: (603) 543-5396 272 River Rd.Claremont, NH 03743