AKWESASNE — A $25,000 grant from Arconic will help complete four tiny homes to provide temporary housing for Mohawk men and women on their path towards regaining their personal and cultural identity after being released from incarceration.

Arconic presented the grant to the Strong Roots Charitable Foundation in support of the Welcome Home Project.

“Our vision is to build strong relationships with self, family, and community in order to effectively contribute to the wellness of our nation and our people,” stated Jonel Beauvais, who is a founding member of the Welcome Home Project.

Beauvais, a formerly incarcerated mother, cites that the successful integration back into the sacred circle of the Akwesasne community is dependent upon having the support and space to do so.

The Welcome Home Project first began raising funds for the temporary housing units through grassroots fundraising initiatives that included pie sales, change drives, and Indian taco sales. In May 2021, the Project partnered with the Strong Roots Charitable Foundation to provide a formalized mechanism for raising funds. It now allows individuals to make tax deductible donations online, in-person, or anonymously through Strong Root’s 501c3 designation.

Donations in any amount are welcomed and are often accompanied with words of support and appreciation from generous donors. The Welcome Home Project’s efforts have touched the heartstrings of many, including individuals currently incarcerated at the Cayuga County Correctional Facility, who gathered and contributed a $200 donation. Their generous donation and desire to help those who will soon be released from incarceration is priceless.

“We extend appreciation to Arconic for supporting our goal of empowering and enriching the lives of Akwesasronon by providing a healthy and safe environment for their reintegration back into our First Nations community,” stated Strong Roots Board Member Dianna Tarbell. Tarbell noted, “Their grant will assist Akwesasne members released from incarceration to have access to affordable, single-person living units; along with the community support, resources, and encouragement to acclimate their way back into their families and society.”

To make a tax deductible donation to the Welcome Home Project, contact Strong Roots Charitable Foundation Administrator Chessie Thomas by calling (315) 296-3920 or Welcome Home Project Representative Jonel Beauvais at (315) 705-5277. Donations can also be made online at www.strongroot.org, with the notation “Welcome Home Project.”