Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry today announced that 10 local non-profits will receive funding from the City’s federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) dollars. Almost $240,000 will be available to help low- and moderate-income residents with shelter, employment skills and youth development.

This year, the following non-profits will receive grants:

• Boys and Girls Clubs of Fort Wayne (Passport to Manhood)
• Cedars Hope (Homelessness to Independence)
• Easter Seals Arc (Meaningful Employment for People with Developmental Disabilities)
• Hope House (Employment Services for Homeless)
• Just Neighbors (Services for Homeless)
• Literacy Alliance (Pre-GED Classes)
• Lutheran Social Services (Cup of Kindness)
• Volunteer Center @ RSVP (Mobile Benefits for Homeless)
• SCAN (Courtyard Services for Youth Aging Out of Foster Care)
• Volunteers of America (Veterans Employment)

The City receives CDBG dollars annually from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to fund activities that primarily benefit low- and moderate-income residents. Because of recent federal cuts to CDBG allocations, many cities have stopped funding non-profit services. Mayor Henry, however, continues his commitment to these services.

“Our local non-profits play a critical role in making sure all residents have opportunities to succeed,” said Mayor Henry. “I’m proud to support services that help address homelessness and prepare individuals for employment.”

The City uses a competitive application process to award the grants. A committee of area social service professionals helps score the applications and make recommendations on funding. Criteria are based on goals for the use of federal funds that are developed in part with input from local residents.

Source: The City of Fort Wayne; Inside INdiana Business