City Mayor Marc Nelson announced today that $490,000 is being made available to community organizations through the city’s Youth Activities & Opportunities Grant Program.
The city created the program in 2018 with $140,000 in seed money. Over the years, grant monies have been distributed for sporting activities, the performing arts, summer camps, tech programs, job skills development, among other essential endeavors.
This year, the city is raising the maximum funding award from $15,000 to $20,000 for recipients.
“This highly successful grant program has been strengthened and expanded each year,” Mayor Nelson said. “These grants will greatly benefit our youth and families -- and the organizations that serve them. We also are rolling it out a little earlier this year to give organizations a head start in planning their activities, many of which occur outside during the warmer weather.”
“The city's investment in this program has a real and positive impact on children’s lives and assists worthy organizations doing great things in our community," said Youth Services Director Karen Williams. “We encourage organizations to apply for these grants and the city is here to help assist in that process."
Last year, the city allocated $339,000 for youth-related programs, more than doubling the annual investment the city has been able to make in these endeavors over the years. The city has created a summary of grant recipients from 2022 and the programs and activities they created with the funds.
Like last year, this year’s commitment involves both city and American Rescue Plan Act funds.
Applications will be accepted through March 1, 2023. The application form, guidelines and other information can be found at the city’s new Youth Services Division webpage.
Youth grant applicants are invited to attend an information meeting to be held at 11 a.m. Monday, February 13 at City Hall, Common Council Chambers. There, the city will answer questions and provide information on reporting and training compliances connected to the program.
Applicants can contact Williams at 845-451-4016 or email her at KaWilliams@cityofpoughkeepsie.com for further information or to discuss program eligibility.