Community Assistance Program grants to provide relief for labor shortage expedited to Nov. 23 deadline

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Martin County Board of County Commissioners to prioritize and distribute American Rescue Plan Act aid to boost temporary employment opportunities and workforce development programming 

On Oct. 22, Martin County Board of County Commissioners released much-anticipated applications for a new set of Community Assistance Program grants available to 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Community Partners and 501(c)(6) Organizations. Funded through American Rescue Plan Act federal aid, the grants aim to mitigate the negative social and economic impacts of the pandemic.

The county in collaboration with United Way of Martin County who serves as the coordinating agency of the Community Assistance Program,  announced today that to help our unemployed residents obtain employment before the holidays, it is expediting the grant process for programs targeted toward workforce assistance and efforts to accelerate rehiring and address barriers to employment. The expedited deadline for applications for these programs is Tuesday, Nov. 23, 2021 at 3:00 p.m.   Workforce programs can also apply under the normal application timeframes.

“These workforce grants will build a stronger workforce and empower Martin County workers with the skills they need to succeed and thrive,” said  George Stokus, Assistant County Administrator. “The goal is to close skill gaps, create more good-paying jobs, and expand career opportunities for more Martin County residents.”

Martin County will prioritize proposals that specifically target those most disproportionately impacted by the pandemic, including low-income communities.

Community Assistance Program grants are also available for programs that address health disparities, educational disparities, mental health, and supportive housing and services for individuals experiencing homelessness. 

Organizations can review requirements and apply for grants of up to $500,000 on Martin County’s online portal at www.Martin.fl.us/ARPA. The deadline to apply for workforce development and temporary employment programs is Tuesday, Nov. 23rd,  2021. All other applications are due by Friday, Dec. 3, 2021.