For Immediate Release: 1/17/2023 11:25 am
WORCESTER, Mass. – The City of Worcester has released applications for two more programs related to American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds. Eligible applicants can now submit proposals for funding in the areas of Mental Health Support Programs and Services, and in Job Training.
“I am thrilled to announce these programs, as support for mental health services and workforce development are among the City’s top priorities. We have seen the mental health and economic hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and these programs will go a long way to helping those most disproportionately impacted,” said City Manager Eric D. Batista.
The Mental Health Support Programs and Services request for proposals (RFP) will address mental health support programs and services anticipated to help community-based organizations better serve impacted populations. Organizations that serve uninsured or under-insured clients on a pro-bono basis are encouraged to apply. A total of $2 million has been allocated to the program, and applicants can request up to $250,000 per proposal.
Competitive applications to the Job Training RFP will address the negative effects of the pandemic and be aligned with the priorities and strategies identified in MassHire’s Central MA Regional Workforce Blueprint, a copy of which is posted with the RFP on the City’s website. Proposals benefiting populations disproportionately impacted by the pandemic will also be prioritized. A total of $1.2 million has been allocated to the program, and applicants can request up to $100,000 per proposal.
PDF applications to both RFPs can be submitted via email to ARPA@worcesterma.gov or dropped off at City Hall, Room 404. Mental Health Support Programs and Services applicants can also access the City’s web-based portal powered by Neighborly. Application options, eligibility criteria, and additional details about both programs can be found at www.worcesterma.gov/arpa.
Mental Health Support Programs and Services proposals are due to the City of Worcester’s Executive Office of Economic Development by 5 p.m. on Friday, March 3, 2023. Job Training submissions must be received by 5 p.m. on Friday, March 17, 2023.
The City will host a technical assistance workshop for applicants interested in the Mental Health Support Programs and Services program on Wednesday, Feb. 8 from 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. in the Levi Lincoln Chamber at City Hall. A similar workshop for Job Training will be held on Monday, Feb. 20 from 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., also in the Levi Lincoln Chamber. Both sessions will be recorded for anyone who cannot attend in person.
Questions can be submitted at any time by calling 508-799-1404 or emailing ARPA@worcesterma.gov.
