CHICAGO — The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA) announced today it will make $7.1 million in funding available to organizations providing support services and resources to communities hit hardest by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Interested organizations must submit an application to ICJIA by July 24th.
“The statewide data show that COVID-19 has had a disproportionate impact in certain communities. Tragically, those hardest hit can ill-afford yet another crisis,” said Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “This funding initiative will help these communities create a safety net for individuals and families at risk for homelessness and food insecurity. It also allows for flexibility so that other needs identified by communities may be addressed.”
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The funding is provided through the U.S. Bureau of Justice Assistance Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program and will support communities that have been disproportionately impacted by the virus. Funds can be used for:
• Transitional and/or emergency housing and rental assistance for persons involved in the criminal justice system and those who have experienced violence.
• Supportive services for community members, including overall advocacy, case management, legal services, mental and emotional support, and clinical behavioral health services for adults and children.
• Rent, utilities, and COVID-related supplies for community-based agency operations.
• Efforts to distribute food to local residents.
• Other needs resulting from the pandemic, as determined by communities.
Funding priorities were determined by an ICJIA ad hoc committee of criminal justice practitioners, policymakers, and community representatives. ICJIA will target funding to geographic areas where residents have been disproportionately impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Community-level data on positive COVID cases, unemployment, housing, and reentry will be considered in funding decisions.
Additional information on the available funds and application process is available here. Proposals are due by 11:59 pm on Friday, July 24th.
ICJIA is dedicated to improving the administration of criminal justice through work in the areas of grants administration, research and analysis, policy and planning, and information systems and technology. Visit www.icjia.state.il.us.
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