Mayor Yvonne Flowers announced this week that $440,000 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, the program has grown dramatically, and grant monies have been distributed for sporting activities, the performing arts, summer camps, tech programs and job skills development, among other essential endeavors.
This year, the city is offering a maximum funding award of $15,000 for recipients.
“The Youth Activities & Opportunities Grant Program has become a signature initiative in the city, and the city administration and Common Council are grateful to be able to keep the funding in place, recognizing how important it is to the community,” Mayor Flowers said. “These grants greatly benefit our youth and families, and it’s always a joy for us to see these funds in action — on fields and camps and in programs across the city.”
Applications will be accepted through Feb. 9. The application form, guidelines and other information can be found at the city’s Youth Services Division webpage.
The city will hold an information meeting about the grant process at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 17, in the Common Council Chambers at City Hall. There, the city will answer questions and provide information on reporting and training compliances connected to the program.
“We believe it’s important for people to attend the information session, so we can guide people through the process. We know these funds help them provide healthy activities for our youth and make a big difference to our community,” said Youth Services Director Karen Williams.
Applicants can contact Williams at 845-451-4016 or email her at KaWilliams@cityofpoughkeepsie.com for further information or to discuss program eligibility.