Community Services Block (CSBG) Grant

The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) is a federally funded program administered at the state level by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). This program operates under the authority of the Community Opportunities, Accountability, and Training Educational Services Human Services Reauthorization Act of 1998 and the Pennsylvania Community Services Block Grant Act of 2014. The overarching goal of the CSBG is to reduce poverty by supporting the operations of a certified network of Community Action Agencies (CAAs) and other local governmental entities that serve low-income communities across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. CSBG funding is structured as a block grant, with allocations determined through a formulaic entitlement approach. This funding model allows each participating agency, known as a CSBG Eligible Entity (CEE), the flexibility to implement programs tailored to the specific needs of their local communities. Common services supported include early childhood education, emergency utility assistance, employment training, housing support, food and nutrition programs, and coordination with other anti-poverty resources. All services must be informed by a Community Needs Assessment conducted every three years. To qualify as a CEE, an organization must be a designated Community Action Agency or Limited Purpose Agency with a tripartite board that includes representatives of low-income residents, public officials, and private sector leaders. Only existing CEEs are eligible to receive funding at this time, and Pennsylvania is not currently accepting new CEE designations. Individual applicants are not eligible for funding and should instead seek services through their local CEE. Income eligibility for individuals receiving services under CSBG funding is capped at 125% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. Applications for funding must be submitted via the DCED’s Electronic Single Application system every three years, with annual work plans required at the beginning of each calendar year. CEEs also submit quarterly budget justifications and monthly invoices and financial status reports. Funding is released quarterly upon approval of submitted budgets. Agencies must also comply with directives issued by DCED and adhere to federal performance and accountability standards, including participation in the Results Oriented Management and Accountability (ROMA) framework. Prohibited uses of CSBG funds include construction of facilities, land purchases, and political activities such as voter registration or candidate support. Agencies must also adhere to requirements regarding nondiscrimination, conflict of interest, and records retention. Each CEE is assigned a Program Specialist within the DCED’s Center for Community Services, and general inquiries can be directed to RA-DCEDOCS@pa.gov. CSBG program monitoring is conducted annually by DCED and may include both on-site visits and desk reviews. The CSBG is a recurring program, with the most recent state guidelines released in July 2023. Although specific application opening and closing dates are not published, the program remains active and recurring. The next cycle is anticipated for July 2026, based on its biannual planning and reporting structure. All program guidelines, directives, and contact details, including lists of designated CEEs, are available through the DCED and the Community Action Association of Pennsylvania.

Agencies should ensure alignment between their strategic plan, work plan, and Community Needs Assessment. Adherence to ROMA and organizational standards is essential.