FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 9, 2021

Department of Social Services invites public comment on Community Service Block Grant State Plan

JEFFERSON CITY, MO — The Department of Social Services is asking the public and stakeholders for comments and suggestions regarding the Community Service Block Grant (CSBG) State Plan, which outlines upcoming goals for Federal Fiscal Year (FFY) 2022 and FFY 2023. Comments must include the specific section referenced and must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m. on August 27, 2021 for consideration. Comments may be sent by email at CommunitySupportUnit@dss.mo.gov using the subject “CSBG State Plan Comments” or by mail to:

Attn: CSBG Staff
3418 Knipp Drive Suite C
Jefferson City, MO 65109

The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) is a federal block grant provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that helps fund a network of 19 Community Action Agencies that help create, coordinate, and deliver programs and services to low-income Missourians across the state. Individuals whose family income is below 125 percent of the federal poverty level may be eligible for help through CSBG programs. Federal statute requires 90 percent of funding to be passed to eligible entities. Remaining funds can be used for discretionary purposes, like administration, training, technical assistance, services for special populations, or other poverty-related issues including homelessness and child nutrition. For more information about CSBG and the services available visit the DSS website.

A virtual public meeting to respond to questions and comments about the CSBG State Plan will be held 2:00 - 4:00 p.m., Monday, August 30. To participate in this meeting, click on “Join WebEx Meeting” and follow the instructions. The meeting call-in number is 1-650-479-3207, the meeting number (access code) is 177 802 6321, and the meeting password is 28Max2ikw2Z.

The mission of the Department of Social Services is to empower Missourians to live safe, healthy, and productive lives.

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