The City of Mesa is currently accepting applications for its Annual Funding for the fiscal year 2025-2026. This funding opportunity is part of several federally funded programs aimed at supporting community development initiatives within the city. The total funding available exceeds one million dollars, with specific allocations designated for various programs, including the Community Development Block Grant, Emergency Solutions Grant, and the HOME Investment Partnerships Program. The deadline for submitting applications is October 2, 2024.

The primary purpose of this funding is to assist low to moderate-income individuals and families through community development projects. The objectives include enhancing public facilities, improving public services, and providing housing assistance. The funding is intended to build stronger, more resilient communities by addressing the needs of vulnerable populations and improving overall living conditions.

The funding scope includes several specific programs. The Community Development Block Grant can be used for public facilities such as daycare centers and health centers, public improvements like street repairs, and public services including homeless services and youth programs. The Emergency Solutions Grant focuses on helping individuals and families regain stability after experiencing homelessness, while the HOME program supports affordable housing initiatives through various activities, including the acquisition and rehabilitation of rental properties.

Eligible applicants for this funding include nonprofit organizations, particularly those designated as Community Housing Development Organizations, which must meet specific criteria regarding their legal status and capacity to develop affordable housing. The City of Mesa prioritizes applications that demonstrate a clear benefit to low to moderate-income residents and address pressing community needs.

Submission requirements for the grant include a completed application form, which can be found on the City of Mesa's website. Applicants may also need to provide supporting documentation that outlines their proposed projects and how they align with the funding objectives. It is essential for applicants to carefully review the application questions to ensure they provide comprehensive and relevant information.

Evaluation criteria for the applications will focus on the project's potential impact on the community, the feasibility of the proposed activities, and the applicant's capacity to successfully implement the project. The City of Mesa aims to fund projects that demonstrate a clear alignment with community development goals and effectively address the needs of the target population.

Important dates to note include the application deadline of October 2, 2024. Interested parties are encouraged to visit the City of Mesa's website for more detailed information and to access the application materials. For any inquiries, applicants can contact Michele Payakovich via email or phone for assistance.