Amherst Awarded $321,577 in CDBG And Cares Act Funding

Source: amherstma.gov

The Town of Amherst announced on Monday (8/3) that they have received an award of $321,577 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding from the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).   

Approximately half the funding, $160,000, is allocated to a microenterprise assistance program that will award grants up to $10,000 to businesses with 5 or fewer employees and which are income-eligible.  Valley CDC is working with the Town to administer this program.   The other funding will be distributed to organizations that address food insecurity and housing instability, and to support people experiencing homelessness.  The Food Pantry at the Amherst Survival Center will receive $90,000 due to the substantial increase in the need for those services, Family Outreach of Amherst will receive $52,000 to support residents in retaining their housing and to find affordable housing. Craig’s Doors Resource Center will receive approximately $20,000 to support individuals experiencing homelessness with case management and in their search for housing.

DHCD made 36 awards across the State through a competitive application process that seeks to address impacts from COVID-19.  

Town Manager Paul Bockelman said, “While the needs of our community far outstrip the funds available, I am grateful to the Department of Housing and Community Development for funding these very important initiatives in the Town of Amherst.”