The City of Gainesville's budget for nonprofit organizations has decreased this year to $400,000 to allocate to 21 nonprofit agencies, said Jim Hencin, Gainesville's block grant manager.
The decrease in grant money follows a decrease in overall federal funding for community block grants, which go toward agencies that facilitate local social-service programs, Hencin said.
This year's recipients should include Bread of the Mighty Food Bank, ElderCare of Alachua County and the Child Advocacy Center.
Despite decreased funds, some organizations are receiving grants for the first time.
Melisa Miller, executive director of Rebuilding Together North Central Florida said the first-time grant will not be enough to meet the agency's needs.
"There is still an overall lack of funds, and that is why we depend on other funds like the University of Florida Community Campaign as well," Miller said. "We want to be able to continue toward our goal of repairing homes for those in need."
With decreased funds, agencies that are accustomed to receiving the grants may have to rely more on other sources of funding.
Arbor House administrator Andrea Pence said the organization will rely on donations in addition to the $7,000 it should receive this year to aid pregnant homeless women.
"Ninety percent of our funding comes from the local churches and individuals," Pence said. "We couldn't survive without them."
