Deadline near for CDBG grants

The City of Evanston receives approximately $2 million in federal Community Development Block Grant funds annually to address housing and economic development needs of low- and moderate-income residents and make capital improvements in the CDBG Target Areas.

Non-profit organizations are invited to apply for funding for the 2009-10 fiscal year, which runs from March 1, 2009, to Feb. 28, 2010. Applications are due Friday, Sept. 12 and are available on the City's website.

Applications will be reviewed at public meetings on Oct. 14, 21 and 28 in the City Council Chambers. Citizens are invited to attend. Meetings will also be televised on Evanston Cable 16.

The Housing and Community Development Act Committee will make its 2009-10 funding recommendations at a public meeting on Nov. 11.

This year, CDBG funds are helping support over 40 projects and programs including: Capital improvements for four non-profits' facilities; renovation of the kitchen and art room and landscaping at Fleetwood-Jourdain Center; alley paving, sidewalks and curbs in the CDBG target areas; business counseling and support for entrepreneurs and small businesses; neighborhood improvements, from garbage cans to safety plans; housing rehab projects for lower-income homeowners, seniors and people with disabilities; job training and employment for Evanston youth; social services programs for seniors, youth, and victims of domestic violence; and legal services for low-income residents.

To get all the updates on CDBG via e-mail, visit www.cityofevanston.org/newsletter then check the box for "Community Development Block Grants."