Worcester to accept first applications for $50 million in community-based Rescue Plan funds [masslive.com]

Worcester residents, business owners and community organizations will have a chance to access some of the city’s $50 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds meant for community-based programs.

The city announced it will be accepting a first round of applications for Community Projects & Programs, Small Business Safety Net, Owner-Occupied Housing Rehabilitation, Lead Paint Abatement and Flood Insurance in a press release Friday.

ARPA funds are meant to help communities offset the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Community Projects & Programs allows nonprofits to submit applications for up to $250,000 for programs and up to $1,000,000 for capital improvement projects that address the negative impacts of the pandemic, according to the city.

Small businesses, who were hit hard but COVID-restrictions that made them close their doors or rethink their business models, can apply for grants ranging from $5,000 to $11,500 from the Small Business Safety Net Program.

Property owners that live in their buildings qualify for up to $30,000, per eligible unit, in Owner-Occupied Housing Rehabilitation funding to help them address building or sanitary code violations. If their properties are in the flood zone they also qualify for to apply for grants equivalent to up to 50% of their annual flood insurance premium cost.

Property owners whose residential properties were built prior to 1978 can also apply for grants of up to $15,000 to abate lead paint hazards.

Organizations, residents and businesses can begin submitting applications at the end of August when the city’s application software will be ready.

Worcester will be using Neighborly, a web-based grant management program, to administer and manage the applications.

PDF versions of the applications are available on the city’s website so people who are interested in applying can familiarize themselves with the program and eligibility criteria.

The city is hosting workshops for organizations interested in applying for Community Projects & Programs funding on Aug. 16 at 6 p.m. in the Levi Lincoln chambers in Worcester City Hall and on Aug. 22 at 6 p.m. virtually.

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