Explanation
BACKGROUND: This legislation authorizes the Director of the Department of Development to enter into grant agreements with the Columbus Urban League to provide the Victim's Assistance Program and the African-American Male Initiative for a twelve-month period.
The Victim's Assistance Program serves high-risk and minority populations. Services include assuring the rights of victims to participate in the justice system, the right to restitution from offenders, and the access to social services including housing, employment and education.
The African-American Male Initiative evolved as a result of issues raised concerning the increasing rates of homicide among young African-American males and how to develop strategies to address underlying factors, during the African-American Male Summit held in January 2006 by Mayor Coleman and Columbus City Council. Through collaboration with existing programs, services and organizations within the community, the Initiative works to address the issues and circumstances that have hindered many African-American males.
This legislation represents programs funded following the Emergency Human Services application process. The legislation targets a social service agency that will provide help to families and households through educational and/or health programs by assisting with the operating needs of the individual agency. In addition, the city supports programs and activities so that the greater population is assured access to other community assistance. This funding will allow the process to continue much needed services.
Emergency action is necessary to avoid causing interruptions in the delivery of program services.
FISCAL IMPACT: This ordinance authorizes the expenditure of $94,283.00 from the Emergency Human Services Fund. In 2009, a total of $2,100,000 has been allocated to fund social service programs through the Emergency Human Services Fund. Companion legislation authorizes the expenditure of...
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