By Staff Reports
(HONOLULU) – Mayor Rick Blangiardi today announced that 61 non-profit organizations have been awarded grants totaling $9,299,000 as part of its annual Grants In Aid Program. There were many deserving non-profits who received funding, including The American Lung Association, Domestic Violence Action Center, Faith Action for Community Equity, and Hawaii Youth Symphony Association. Please click here for a complete list of all the organizations who received grant funding, and the total amount awarded.
“We are so proud to be part of the incredible work that these non-profits are doing,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “Whether they are providing assistance to low-income families, helping people escape the cycle of domestic abuse, or funding local artists, each of the awardees are doing their part to make Honolulu a better place to live. We are thrilled to support them in any way we can.”
All non-profits who serve economically and/or socially disadvantaged populations, or provide services for public benefit in the areas of arts, culture, economic development, or the environment are encouraged to apply for Grants In Aid funding. The next opportunity to apply will be announced in October, 2022 for Fiscal Year 2024 Funds.
The City Charter-mandated GIA fund administered by the Department of Community Services (DCS) was established by a voter initiative to serve economically and/or socially disadvantaged populations, or provide services for public benefit in the areas of arts, culture, economic development, or the environment. A volunteer Commission, whose members are appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the City Council, make recommendations to the City Council on which grants to fund. The City Council, as part of the City’s regular budgeting process then awards the grants.
Additional Background
The city is mandated by a Charter Amendment to set aside one-half of one percent (0.05%) of general funds for Grants in Aid for the following two categories:
Public Services
Funds in this category must be used to support qualified public services and programs for the target populations deemed by the city to be most vulnerable, including but not limited to: seniors, persons with disabilities, children, victims of domestic violence, people experiencing homelessness, and those suffering from the effects of substance abuse or poor mental health.
Arts, Culture, and Community / Economic Development and the Environment
Funds in this category must be used to support the sustainable improvement in the well-being and quality of life of local communities, especially low to moderate income areas. Projects could include, but are not limited to: the creation, development and empowerment of community-based organizations, providing planning, organizational support, and technical assistance to organizations, supporting financial literacy programs and services, supporting micro-enterprise and business training, and supporting programs that promote cultural or environmental enhancement, protection or awareness.