Community Services Block Grant to provide aid to residents in Montclair, Bloomfield and Belleville

Freeholder Gill Announces $128K Grant to Assist Low-income Essex County Families

Posted

Today, Essex County Freeholder At-Large Brendan Gill announced a $128,505.50 grant agreement with Montclair Neighborhood Development Corporation (MNDC) to provide emergency services and various programs to low-income residents in Montclair, Bloomfield and Belleville. Services provided by the funds, which are part of the County Community Services Block Grant Program, include but are not limited to employment counseling and placement, education and career training, housing assistance, emergency assistance, food, youth services, and advocacy.

“These critical funds will go a long way towards providing the most vulnerable amongst us the resources they need,” stated Gill. “The services provided through this grant are key to our economic recovery and essential to preserving the core of our communities and neighborhoods. I applaud MNDC for their efforts, and remain committed to fighting for the resources needed to strengthen our communities while working towards a brighter future for all of Essex County.”

“MNDC continues to grow and provide much needed assistance to many of the families throughout the County in dire need,” stated Albert Pelham, Executive Director of the MNDC. “We are very fortunate that our County leaders continue to fight to bring much needed resources to the underserved population.”

Funds for the county grant are provided by the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, which Congress designed to enhance and maintain the viability of urban communities. The CDBG program accomplishes these goals by providing decent housing, suitable living environments and expanded economic opportunities; principally for low-and moderate-income persons. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) administers the CDBG program through state and local governments.

MNDC is a non-profit community based social service agency whose mission is to empower and support disadvantaged individuals, youth, and families to achieve an improved quality of life through training, education, and advocacy. Founded in 1969, MNDC offers several programs including crisis intervention, supportive services, and youth development.