County now offering federal stimulus grants to community service groups

Island County began accepting applications Oct. 15 for Community Service Grants.

Island County will begin accepting applications on Friday, Oct. 15 for Community Service Grants under the federal American Rescue Plan Act, or ARPA.

A total of $2 million in community service grants will be awarded by the Island County Board of Commissioners to local organizations, including senior and veteran services, childcare and development services, support for youth and support for the physically or developmentally disabled.

“It’s super exciting to offer this opportunity to help the community to expand much-needed services,” said Liz Chaffin, Island County ARPA Program coordinator.

Grant money may be used by an organization to expand its reach, modernize services or adapt to needs in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Applications are due by the end of day on Nov. 15, according to Chaffin, who added there is no cost to apply. Only one application per entity will be accepted. For those who may be inexperienced at applying for grants, the application is two pages and the process simplified.

For more information about the grants, or to return an application, email to Liz Chaffin at LC.Chaffin@islandcountywa.gov or mail to Island County ARPA Program, PO Box 5000, Coupeville, WA 98239. Chaffin’s contact phone is 360-679-7397.

Applications can be found on the Island County website at bit.ly/3aF3uD1.