The grant program available to social care agencies has been expanded to include a new priority area: mental health. Additional funding categories will help support the needs of Lexington's vulnerable populations.
Mayor Linda Gorton said, “Supporting local social services agencies is critical to helping those in our communities who are most in need.” She said: “It is important to include mental health concerns that affect many people in the city.”
“Extended Social Resources” grants, also known as ESRs, fund community-based initiatives that provide services in the following priority areas: Childhood and adolescent development. Food insecurity and nutrition access. and mental health.
“We want to fund innovative programs that leverage best practices and evidence-based models to address mental health issues,” said Human Services Secretary Casey Allen-Bryant. .
These grants for fiscal years 2025 and 2026 will be administered by the City Department of Social Services. These are in addition to emergency shelter priority area funds administered by the Office of Homeless Prevention and Intervention.
Community agencies interested in learning more information about the upcoming ESR grant program can attend an informational workshop webinar on Tuesday, March 26 at 2 p.m. Individuals must register in advance.
