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State & Local Projects

Community Services Block Grants (self-sufficiency)

Section: Division A, Title VIII | Agency: Dept. of Community Affairs

The Community Services Block Grant Program annually provides funds to community action agencies, local governments and non-profit agencies to provide assistance to low-income Floridians to become self-sufficient. The program provides a variety of services designed at the local level to meet specific community needs that can range from self sufficiency assistance to immediate life necessities such as food, medicine, shelter, etc.

Brief description of program or funding including funding distribution method (formula or competitive grant):

The program provides a variety of services designed at the local level to meet specific community needs that can range from self sufficiency assistance to immediate life necessities such as food, medicine, shelter, etc.  These local agencies partner with other service agencies to provide a broader range of services within their communities, therefore the funds not only help the individuals and families, but they help the community as a whole.  The following provisions are included in the ARRA legislation:

** 1% of funds to be reserved for local enrollment coordination services.

** Allows states to increase income eligibility ceiling up to 200% of federal poverty level (up from current 125%) for period FFYs 2009-2010.

These funds are formula-based and are allocated to the state and subgrantees based on low-income population as identified in the 2000 Census.

The State's plan is available for comment at:  http://www.floridacommunitydevelopment.org/csbg/Files/CSBGARRAPlan.pdf

When funds are expected to be available: Received grant award April 14, 2009.

How long are funds available: September 30, 2010

Conditions or prerequisites for accessing funds (include matching or MOE requirements): 

No state match or MOE requirement in ARRA.