20 Local Non-Profit Agencies Receive Community Development Block Grants in 2005

February 25, 2005

The city of Grand Forks has once again partnered with United Way to distribute the Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) for Public Service Projects.  For the fifth year, the allocation committee, which included United Way board members and past grant review committee members, looked at requests from 20 local nonprofit agencies. Although $500,000 in requests was made, only $225,000 was available for allocation.

To decide how to best distribute the funds, the committee met with each agency and reviewed their programs and budgets.  Through much discussion and consideration, the committee decided to give the $225,000 to 23 programs.  The programs offer a variety of services: health, food, job training, transportation, housing, intervention and counseling to different groups in need: at-risk youth, senior citizens, low-income individuals and families, as well as people with disabilities and mental illnesses.

Red River Valley Community Action was one of the agencies that received a CDBG this year.  The agency plans to use the money for two programs, including the Save our Cents IDA program which helps families who are purchasing a first home, starting a small business or paying for a secondary education.

“I believe helping a family purchase a home is one of the best things you can do for them,” said Kent Keys, Executive Director for Red River Valley Community Action.  “It gives them a solid foundation and allows them to become contributing members of the community.”

In 2004, $207,000 was distributed to 21 nonprofit agencies.

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For more information contact: Kayla Schramm, Campaign & Marketing Services Manager, at (701) 775-8661
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