San Rafael, CA – Nonprofits that regularly assist lower-income Marin County residents have a key opportunity in January to apply for federal funding.
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME), provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), are administered by the Marin County Community Development Agency (CDA). Local nonprofits have until January 24 to apply for the funds, and a bidders conference will be held online January 11 to provide details.
Marin has one of the highest median household incomes in California – $149,600 for a family of four – but many struggle to meet basic needs with housing, basic health, and child care. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has added extra layers of challenges to low- and moderate-income families and individuals, increasing pressure on charitable organizations to provide help.
The federal grants program provides funding for affordable housing projects, community infrastructure improvements, and public services. The program is on a two-year application cycle and has a minimum grant size of $15,000 annually. Funding for public services is prioritized for housing support, basic health, food security, and support directed toward children and parents.
Application materials for CDA’s 2022-24 application cycle are available at www.marincounty.org/federalgrants and in CDA’s Marin County Civic Center office at 3501 Civic Center Drive, Suite 308, San Rafael, CA 94903, weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Applications are assessed on how they affirmatively further fair housing, serve low-income residents, and serve local members of protected classes based on race, gender, disability, and other factors. Individuals may not apply for the grants.
At the January 11 bidders conference, participants will learn more about the application process and types of eligible projects. The conference will be organized with two distinct presentations:
CDA staff members will be available throughout the application process to consult with organizations unable to attend the bidder’s conference. Office hours will be held throughout the application process via Zoom; register via www.marincounty.org/federalgrants. For more details, email the Housing and Federal Grants Division.