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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowCharities helping homeless people and trying to prevent homelessness will soon have access to $3.9 million in federal stimulus grants.
The money targets Marion County residents who need a place to live, or who need help with rent or utilities in order to avoid homelessness.
Indianapolis was awarded the money in May, but handed off administration to United Way of Central Indiana. The United Way has issued a request for proposals with an Aug. 14 deadline.
Mayor Greg Ballard said in a press release that United Way was “a natural choice for this important work.”
United Way helped create the Coalition for Homelessness Intervention and Prevention of Greater Indianapolis, also known as CHIP.
In response to the economic collapse last fall, United Way pulled together $4.6 million from private donors to create the Community Economic Relief Fund.
Christie Gillespie, United Way director of agency services, said local charities still have a need for cash. She expects as many as 30 organizations to apply for some of the $3.9 million. “I don’t think they’ll have any trouble getting it out the door,” she said.
The grants will go to charities such as the Salvation Army, Catholic Charities or Indianapolis community centers. They’ll be required to monitor use of the money and submit receipts for reimbursement.
Gillespie added that United Way hopes to distribute the entire $3.9 million without deducting for administrative expenses.
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