Communities | Community Services Block Grant FAQs

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1. Who can apply for the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG)? 

Any individual with an income at or below the federal poverty guidelines can apply for services under the Community Services Block Grant.

 

2. What are the eligibility criteria/guidelines for the Community Services Block Grant?  

Eligibility is determined by the local Community Action Agency providing CSBG services in the county where you reside. Households at or below 125 percent of the federal poverty guidelines may be eligible for CSBG services.


Size
of Family

Poverty Guideline

1

$13,537.50

2

$18,212.50

3

$22,887.50

4

$27,562.50

5

$32,237.50

6

$36,912.50
7 $41,587.50
8 $46,262.50

 

For households with more than eight (8) members, add $4,675 for each additional member. 

 

3. Who is the typical Community Services Block Grant Client?

The typical CSBG program participants are low-income families and individuals struggling to maintain self-sufficiency due to economic and social barriers. The Community Action Agencies gather information on all program participants seeking support in whole or in part from the CSBG. Of the more than 810,000 individuals and the 302,000 families served:

  • 44% are younger than the age of 17; 

  • More than 95,000 adults do not have a high school education;

  • 10% of individuals have some type of disability;

  • 20% of individuals lack health insurance;

  • Mean household size is 2.7 persons;

  • 30% of families were headed by single females;

  • 78% of families with income at or below 100% of the federal poverty guidelines;

  • 6% of families reported no income; and

  • 57% are renters.

 

4. Is there a deadline to apply for a Community Services Block Grant?

No. Currently the CSBG program is funded annually by Congress.

 

5. How do I get a job working with the Community Services Block Grant?

The local Community Action Agencies offer a variety of services that promotes self-sufficiency. To find out if employment services is one of the types of services offered, please contact the local Community Action Agency.

 

6. If I want additional information on receiving a Community Services Block Grant, who do I contact?

Additional information about the CSBG can be obtained from the local Community Action Agency in the area where you reside. You may also contact the Office of Community Assistance at (800) 282-0880.