Community Services Block Grant (CSBG)

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Single father and child sit at a kitchen table eating breakfast

The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) Program's primary purpose is to assist communities in implementing locally designed anti-poverty programs. The CSBG Program, through the state's seven Community Action Agencies (CAAs), provide various services, including emergency assistance, money management and housing counseling, self sufficiency services, case management and outreach and referral services to low income households and persons within their respective regions. The CSBG Program is also closely integrated with the low income weatherization assistance program and various other programs that serve low income people and families.

Community Services, in cooperation with the CAAs, prepares an annual funding plan for the U.S. Dept of Health and Human Services. Federal enabling legislation requires that a minimum of 90% of the States' funds be passed through to the CAAs. Funds are allocated to the regions based on several factors, including the geographic area and the percentage of low-income people within the region.

The CAA budgets and work plans are approved by Community Services and the agencies are monitored by Community Services for compliance with federal regulations and program rules. The North Dakota CARES Supplemental CSBG State Plan is now available.