There may not be any such thing as a free lunch, but the City of High Point does have some free money for organizations attempting to help the needy.
The city is now accepting proposals from 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations for its coming fiscal year – 2022-2023.
High Point’s Community Development Block Grant Program has funds for upcoming programs and projects meant to benefit “low to moderate income” residents in the community.
Every year, High Point holds a competitive application process for a portion of those community development funds. Certified nonprofit programs can get public service grants for the purpose of activities that improve the quality of life in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods.
The deadline for applying is 4 p.m., Friday, March 4, 2022. Those with questions can call 336-883-3041.
In the past, some of the funded activities have included the following: “academic tutoring and enrichment programs for youth, youth character and leadership development, food services, community gardens, occupational training and certification, job readiness training for ex-offenders, housing services for the homeless, adult literacy, health and fitness activities and parenting programs.”
Churches and other religious-centered organizations can apply – however, faith-based organizations aren’t allowed to use funds to support “inherently religious activities” such as worship services or classes on religion.
The grant term for eligible projects will be July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2023.
Applications for funding will be reviewed by a nine-member citizen’s board appointed by the High Point City Council. That board will make recommendations to the council.
A virtual workshop will offer information and guidance on how to complete the application. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to attend that workshop to learn and understand all the application guidelines and program requirements.
The workshop will be held from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 4 via Zoom at this link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84679156931?pwd=RWZ5VVBqa1J4MkMwUXYrWk5sUGwrdz09
The Meeting ID number is 846 7915 6931 and the passcode is 307876.
Applications for the funds will be available after the workshop.
Where does this “free lunch” come from?
Those in High Point need to call Yvonne Johnson who is on the Greensboro city council. She’ll tell you how you “too” can get your share of the 501c-3 money, just like she has done for years in Greensboro, to her benefit and those of her family and friends.