A Murray-based non-profit organization is receiving state support to expand their facility and employ more individuals.
Governor Steve Beshear announced today a $182,000 Community Development Block Grant for construction of a new 1,000 sq ft WATCH Inc. work facility and the renovation of the existing building in Murray.
“For decades, WATCH Inc. has worked with local businesses to provide job training and independent-living skills for disabled individuals in Murray and Calloway County,” said Beshear. “I applaud WATCH Inc.’s outstanding service to their community, and am proud to announce this funding to expand their operations and help continue their dedicated efforts to assist Kentuckians with disabilities.”
WATCH Inc. is a non-profit organization that provides vocational rehabilitation, job training and community-based employment opportunities for developmentally disabled adults in the Calloway County area. Beyond placing participants in jobs at local businesses, the group provides in-house employment through contract work with local industries. Individuals receive a monthly paycheck based on the piece rate of their production or an hourly wage for contract work that includes sorting, inspection, assembly and packaging.
The group currently assists approximately 50 individuals but workspace limitations prevents the organization from taking on further participants.
The CDBG funding will go to toward the construction of a new 1,000 square foot work center facility that will allow WATCH Inc. to employ more individuals. The funding will support renovations to WATCH Inc.’s primary and annex buildings, including improvements to restrooms, electrical work and HVAC systems.
The CDBG is being administered by the Department for Local Government; WATCH will put up the remaining $32,000 towards the project.
