Mayor announces 2010 Community Development Block grant funds for public services
Mayor Tom Henry today announced the availability of about $200,000 for improving the quality of life for low- to moderate-income families in the community. The annual, local Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), funded through the federal department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), benefits individuals and families through its support of programs and services delivered by non-profit agencies. Monies are awarded to organizations through a competitive process. For 2010, Mayor Henry has raised the upper grant limit from $20,000 to $25,000 as a way to increase the impact of these limited dollars.
“I see the challenges Fort Wayne families are facing every day,” said Mayor Henry. “From safe programs for children to nutritional enhancement for senior citizens, from job skills for our under-employed workers and educational enrichment for those who want to increase their opportunities, these are the types of vital programs that CDBG funds make possible.”
The CDBG process will see a few changes in 2010. Agencies will be required to attend a training session to apply for resources, helping applicants gain a better understanding of community funding priorities. Organizations receiving funds will also be expected to participate in the Continuum of Care subcommittees that focus on program components designed to address the needs of the homeless through self-sufficiency efforts. The objective of this new approach is to bring more voices into the dialogue about how the community can classify and address local needs.
“Fort Wayne is blessed with many people who care and want to make a difference,” said Henry. “The more we can encourage participation in collaborative communication, the more we extend our ability to serve all of our community. We want to bring as many ideas to the table as possible to help ensure we’re all heading in the same direction.”
CDBG applications are available to interested agencies and other non-profit and faith-based groups on the City’s website at www.cityoffortwayne.org under the Community Development section. Applications are due April 16, and funding awards are expected by mid-May.