News from the Somerset County Board of County Commissioners
Shanel Y. Robinson, Commissioner Director | Sara Sooy, Commissioner Deputy Director
Melonie Marano, Commissioner | Paul Drake, Commissioner | Doug Singleterry, Commissioner
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 9, 2021
Somerset County Accepting Applications for COVID-19 Community Microgrant
Eligible Organizations Can Receive Funding for COVID-Related Programs
SOMERVILLE, NJ – The Somerset County Community Development Office is accepting applications for the COVID-19 Community Microgrant Program, which is available to eligible non-profit organizations and municipalities. Organizations and municipalities are eligible to apply if planning to offer programming through small community-based events that will help prevent, prepare for, or respond to the ongoing pandemic. Programming must provide community awareness, education, promote measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19, and should reach residents with low-to-moderate incomes. Microgrant funding will also include compensation for educational materials, the costs of employing direct service staff, and food. The maximum grant amount is $2,000. Applications will be accepted until the funds are exhausted.
“This grant will help organizations provide greater awareness about COVID-19,” said Somerset County Commissioner Paul Drake. “Some residents may not have access to accurate information about COVID-19. Through this grant, organizations will be able to provide residents with greater knowledge about the virus, so residents can make informed decisions when it comes to COVID-19, such as how to protect themselves, their families and their neighbors throughout the pandemic.”
Eligibility Requirements
All programming must benefit county residents that earn less than 80% of the area median income, or belong to one of the following populations:
- Abused children
- Elderly persons (age 62 and over)
- Homeless persons
- Migrant farmworkers
- Illiterate persons
- Disabled adults (disabled children do not automatically qualify under this criteria)
- Persons with AIDS
- Victims of domestic violence
Application Process
To apply, organizations should submit an application that defines the target population, describes the proposed activity, and includes a budget. Applicants will be notified of acceptance or denial within 10 days of submitting the application budget. Applicants must also have a Business Registration Certificate on file with Somerset County and are required to follow the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) procurement procedure if grant funds are used to purchase prepared meals.
For more information or to receive an application, contact Community Development Coordinator Amanda Agwuegbo at aagwuegbo@co.somerset.nj.us or call 908-541-5756.
The COVID-19 Community Microgrant Program is made possible with Community Development Block Grant Funding (CDBG) appropriated through the CARES Act.
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