The Community Development Block Grant program provides opportunities to set up community facilities and services. The grants are geared toward economically developing communities and ensuring that neighborhoods affected by foreclosure are redeveloped. Through the department of Housing and Urban Development, communities can access funds from the state government for their activities. Grantees, usually states and metropolitan cities, are required to submit to HUD a consolidated plan that outlines the specific project goals.
The Public Assistance Grant Program enables communities affected by disasters to access funds for recovery efforts. Communities can effectively access rapid disaster management through funds issued to the state, nonprofits and local governments. Through the Federal Emergency Management Agency funds are allocated to states. The state then awards the money to groups within the affected communities. Activities covered through this program include repairing of public and private facilities, protective measures against disaster and general clearing of disaster areas.
The Social Services Block Grant allows communities to access services such as day care, health care, disability assistance and other social services. Communities can access these services and funding only through the main grantee, the state. The overall aim of this project is to reduce dependency, especially for persons living with disabilities and the elderly. It also ensures that children and adults are protected from abuse; it reduces unnecessary institutional care and ensures the availability of institutional care for individuals when it is appropriate. The grant enables communities to enhance their services and self-sufficiency.
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families provides funds to states to ensure that needy families are able to care for their children. The program seeks to eliminate dependency on government assistance, to prepare individuals to get into jobs and to encourage two-parent families. Beneficiaries of the program are required to work a minimum of 30 hours every week. Families that have an adult benefiting from the program can only receive assistance for about 60 months.