Explanation
This ordinance authorizes a grant agreement between Columbus City Council and J. Jireh Development Corporation for the purpose of providing housing stabilization services and extra-curricular activities and programming for at-risk youths.
J. Jireh Development Corp. (JJDC) was founded by Pastor Norman Brown and provides services to poverty stricken residents in the Kimball Farms community on the near east side. Pastor Norman’s goal is to inspire his community to become self-sufficient individuals who are able to contribute to society.
JJDC holistically serves individuals, families, and the communities in central Ohio. They are a faith-based ministry and are regulated by a Board of Trustees. Founded in 2009, this organization is built upon the solid foundations of quality services and skilled planning. As a personal and community development corporation, JJDC invests in building people as well as their brick and mortar surroundings.
The target constituents are residents living at or below poverty level and in need of assistance. The intended outcome would prevent homelessness and provide shelter, particularly prior to the winter months. JJDC provides affordable housing known as the “House of Refuge” to citizens that are marginalized.
The funds would also be used to assist at-risk youth by providing extra-curricular activities and programming. For example, JJDC sponsors structured events to keep youth out of trouble and off of the streets. Their goal is to “Enhance students’ motivation to learn, master goal orientation, to share communal love, and to address the neighborhood crime within the community.”
Fiscal Impact: Funding is available within the Neighborhood Initiatives subfund.
Emergency action is requested in order to have housing support funding in place for the winter season.
Title
To authorize Columbus City Council to enter into a grant agreement with J. Jireh Development Corporation for the purpose of providing housing stabili...
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