The City of Naperville's Social Service Grant program aims to provide financial assistance to non-profit social service agencies that serve residents within the Naperville community. This initiative is designed to enhance social service activities for community benefit, aligning with the city's broader mission to support its residents through targeted aid. The grant is structured to address perceived needs and problems in the community, demonstrating a commitment to responsive and impactful local governance.
The program targets a broad range of beneficiaries, including individuals and families in need of emergency services, seniors requiring assistance, individuals striving for self-sufficiency, and those with mental, physical, and developmental disabilities. Additionally, it focuses on youth, aiming to provide them with crucial support. The overarching impact goal is to improve the quality of life for Naperville residents by ensuring access to essential social services, thereby fostering a more resilient and supportive community.
The Social Services Grant operates with five main priorities: Emergency Services, Seniors, Self-Sufficiency, Special Populations (individuals with mental, physical, and developmental disabilities), and Youth. Under Emergency Services, funding supports emergency shelter, food and personal care items, and general emergency assistance. For Seniors, eligible activities include respite care, meal delivery, home sharing, and mental health counseling. Self-Sufficiency initiatives cover medical care for the uninsured, financial counseling, childcare, employment services, and counseling/substance abuse services/case management. Special Populations receive support through caregiver support/respite services and community integration/socialization/independent living skills. For Youth, the grant funds mentoring, counseling, and pregnancy prevention/education programs.
The expected outcomes of this grant program include a reduction in homelessness, improved food security, enhanced mental and physical well-being for seniors and special populations, increased financial stability and employment for those seeking self-sufficiency, and improved developmental and social outcomes for youth. The program anticipates measurable results through the increased provision of these critical services, directly benefiting Naperville residents. The city's strategic priority is to adapt to emerging community needs, with staff performing annual assessments to identify and emphasize additional funding priorities as necessary, ensuring the grant remains relevant and effective in addressing the community's evolving challenges.
