The city is accepting applications from local nonprofit groups
for a share of more than $100,000 in federal grant money, and they
are also looking for people to review those applications.
Gilroy – The city is accepting applications from local nonprofit groups for a share of more than $100,000 in federal grant money, and they are also looking for people to review those applications.
Local nonprofits have until Feb. 3 to apply for money from the city’s federal Community Development Block Grant.
This year, officials are encouraging both new and returning applicants to attend a Jan. 11 informational workshop before sending in a request.
Several City Council members in the last year have criticized the recent use of grant funds, demanding the money go toward “direct services” such as food pantries and shelters.
During the last round of grant approvals in April, when council signed off on $125,872 in grants, former Councilman Bob Dillon and Councilman Russ Valiquette questioned a $29,412 grant for tenant-landlord counseling services, a $5,000 grant to reduce transportation costs for elderly and disabled people and a $4,320 grant for a video that helps disabled people locate housing appropriate to their needs.
Council members asked for a renewed focus on hunger, homelessness and family and youth programs this year, but stopped short of taking control of the review process.
Currently, a Citizens Advisory Committee reviews funding requests and makes recommendations to the seven-member council.
The city is now looking for people to serve on the committee.
Nonprofit applicants or anyone interested in serving on the advisory committee should contact Housing Development Coordinator Marilyn Roaf at 846-0241.
The Jan. 11 technical assistance workshop takes place from 10:30am – 11:30am at the Gilroy Senior Center meeting room, 7371 Hanna Street.
*To learn more, visit the city’s Web site at www.ci.gilroy.ca.us.
