Community Service Block Grant (C.S.B.G.) funds support efforts to identify, reduce or eliminate the causes of poverty and to help solve problems that block the achievement of economic self-sufficiency. The purpose of CSBG is to reduce poverty, revitalize low-income communities, and empower low-income families and individuals to become economically self-sufficient.
The six goals outlined in the CSBG statute address different causes of poverty, and, since each family is likely to be affected by more than one of these, the purposes of the CSBG in part determine the type of coordinating role that Community Action Agencies play.
The outreach staff at Bell-Whitley work with individuals and households to address their needs through direct services or assisting the household in determining available resources needed.
Every Community Service Block Grant (CSBG) dollar leverages almost $5 of state, local and private contributions. A total of $9 billion is administered by the CAA national network to provide support, services and improvements in low-income communities.
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) - Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program provides assistance with energy costs for households who are income eligible and responsible for home heating costs. There are two phases of the LIHEAP Program, the first of which is the subsidy component that begins in early November and ends mid-December. The second phase is the crisis component and this begins the first week of January and normally ends March 15, or until funds are expended.
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Winter Care - This funding is supported by donations from area residents made to Cumberland Valley Electric, Delta Natural Gas, and Kentucky Utilities. Preference is given to elderly and/or disabled income eligible household or households with a child five years old or younger.
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CSBG Emergency Information - CSBG Emergency funds are available to assist households in emergency situations, such as loss of home from fire, homelessness, etc... Consumer must complete an application to verify eligibility.
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Summer Cooling Program - These funds, though not available every year, can assist households with their electric bills and/or an air conditioning unit. Occasionally funding permits the purchase of air conditioning units. An application must be completed to determine eligibility.
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Kentucky Vision Project - Kentucky Vision Project assists adults meeting income guidelines with eye exams and purchase of eye glasses. CSBG Outreach Staff is designated to complete and screen applications for assistance through the Kentucky Vision Project.
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Emergency Food & Shelter (EF&S) Funds - Funds for this program are only available in Whitley County. These funds may be used to assist individuals meeting all guidelines with one month's rent or utility payment to provide one month's service.
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The six goals outlined in the CSBG statute address different causes of poverty, and, since each family is likely to be affected by more than one of these, the purposes of the CSBG in part determine the type of coordinating role that Community Action Agencies play.
