Community Services Block Grant (CSBG)
The purposes of CSBG are to provide assistance to States and local communities working through a network of community action agencies and other neighborhood-based organizations, for the reduction of poverty, the revitalization of low-income communities, and the empowerment of low-income families and individuals in rural and urban areas to become fully self-sufficient (particularly families who are attempting to transition off public assistance). In order to accomplish this, a community advisory board establishes priorities based on community needs. Participation from low-income persons is part of this process.
Emergency Shelter Homeless Prevention (ESHP)
The Emergency Shelter and Homeless Prevention (ESHP) program provides funds for temporary emergency shelter, homeless prevention and case management to individuals and families who are homeless, or at risk of becoming homeless. The program is designed to help support the operations of existing emergency shelters and provide case management to homeless individuals so they can transition to more stable housing. The homeless prevention and intervention activities include case management and short-term subsidies to help defray rent and mortgage expenses to help keep individuals and families most at risk of becoming homeless in current housing. Funds are awarded to service providers based on a collaborative community process and application.
Housing Preservation and Weatherization
The Housing Rehabilitation Program provides financial assistance for home repairs to low and moderate-income homeowners/single family residences in Clark County. The Weatherization Assistance Program provides services to increase the number of low-income Clark County households receiving cost effective and energy efficient improvements.
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance
In December 2002, the Clark County Community Action Program transferred the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to Clark Public Utilities (CPU). The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program provides grants for energy assistance to eligible customers. Call the CPU customer service line (available 24 hours a day, seven days a week) at (360) 992-3000 for more information. The automated appointment number is 1-866-861-6354. Customers who have gas, oil or another heating source should call their heating vendor to make payment arrangements until they can get an Energy Assistance appointment.
Marriage License Fee Surcharge
RCW26.04.160 imposes a surcharge on marriage license fees. This county general fund revenue is provided to the Department of Community Services for the purpose of funding family services. The target population is families with children. Family services include resource information, parenting classes, child development activities, health and educational activities, family support centers and domestic violence prevention and intervention services.
