The Community Development Division
provides human service grants to nonprofit organizations located within the
City of Bellingham.
Approximately $500,000 is available every year from City of Bellingham
General Funds and federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds.
Grants are typically made on a two-year basis.
A Request for Proposals (RFP) is typically issued in June with a 30-day application window.
The RFP details funding priorities for the biennium, which are based on the most recently published Human Service Statement of Need (PDF). The Community Development Advisory Board, a 15-member citizen-based board, reviews applications and recommends funding to the Bellingham City Council.
Technical assistance is available during the RFP window. Those interested in being placed on a mailing list for the RFP may contact the Community Development Division.
Funding must be used to deliver human services to a minimum of 51% low - and very-low income individuals (see the City of Bellingham Income Table).
Both new and existing services can be funded if the applicant demonstrates the appropriate experience and capacity. Applicants must comply with the financial and administrative requirements of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFRs).
All applicants must also comply with the requirements of OMB Circulars A-110, A-122, and A-133, as applicable. Applicants must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Priorities vary from year to year depending on current community needs. Past priorities have included Housing programs, physical/mental health services, and Job Training.
Ineligible Activities
Proposal evaluation criteria are announced in each Request for Proposals. Past examples of evaluation criteria include the extent to which the application serves low income beneficiaries, provides case management services and proposes appropriate, measurable outcomes.
For more information contact the Human Service Program manager at the Community Development Division.
For more information on homelessness in Whatcom County go to the Whatcom County Health and Human Services website.
