2025 Community Partnership Program

The City of Savannah's 2025 Community Partnership Program aims to address key issues impacting its residents through Community Investment programs and Homelessness Services System Coordination funding. This initiative seeks to align with the city's strategic priorities of Good Government, Vibrant Neighborhoods, Health & Environment, Economic Strength/Poverty Reduction, Infrastructure Growth & Development, and Public Safety. The program operates under a theory of change that by supporting legally formed non-profit entities directly benefiting Savannah residents, it can achieve positive and measurable community outcomes across various critical sectors. The Community Investment programs target a broad range of beneficiaries, including residents experiencing challenges with economic mobility, seniors, youth, individuals facing food insecurity, and those in need of health and wellness services. The impact goal for these programs is to foster a more resilient and thriving community by addressing fundamental needs and improving quality of life. Funding for Community Investment contracts ranges from $15,000 to $50,000, with proposals evaluated by selection committees. A specific focus of the program is Homelessness Services System Coordination. This funding category, capped at $200,000, is dedicated to supporting the lead agency for the Continuum of Care (CoC). The target beneficiaries for this category are individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Savannah. The impact goal is to strengthen the coordinated entry system and other federally mandated CoC activities, leading to more efficient and effective services for the homeless population and ultimately reducing homelessness in the city. Eligible activities for participating agencies fall under two categories: Community Services and Homelessness Services System Coordination. Proposals for Community Services (ranging from $15,000 to $50,000) must demonstrate the ability to address a community need. For the Homelessness Services System Coordination category (up to $200,000), agencies must prove their capacity to provide all required Continuum of Care services. Expected outcomes include tangible improvements in the focus areas, with measurable results tied to the specific services provided and the number of residents impacted. For instance, an economic mobility program would measure the number of individuals gaining employment or increased income, while a food insecurity program would track the number of meals provided or individuals served. To ensure accountability and financial integrity, applying agencies must be legally formed non-profit entities located within Savannah and providing services to its residents. They are required to provide proof of legal formation and submit a Review Report of their profit and loss statement or financial statements prepared by an Independent Auditor or Certified Public Accountant. For agencies expending less than $100,000 in the prior fiscal year, a summary of the Profit and Loss Statement prepared by an independent auditor or a certified public accountant will be accepted. Any financial concerns identified will be addressed during the proposal review period in consultation with the City of Savannah’s Office of Management and Budget, ensuring that public funds are managed responsibly and effectively towards achieving the program’s strategic objectives.