Illinois programs to get $7M in federal COVID-19 relief

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - More than $7 million in federal funding will be going to organizations to help Illinois communities hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, state officials said.

The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority said it will distribute $7.1 million in U.S. Bureau of Justice Assistance money made available through federal stimulus legislation last spring.

Groups interested in participating should apply to ICJIA by July 24.

Money is available for groups for a variety of purposes, including housing and rental assistance for people involved in the criminal justice system or those who have experienced violence. Funding will also go toward supporting services such as advocacy, case management, legal services and mental health.

Money will also be provided for community-based operations to pay rent, utilities or supplies related to fighting the COVID-19 pandemic, efforts to distribute food to needy residents and other needs as determined by local community officials.

The funding will be targeted to areas hit hardest by the pandemic based on analysis of the number of cases, unemployment and housing needs.

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Online

Funding application: https://bit.ly/38RyAp4