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Legislation would distribute $35 million from the transformative Economic Recovery and Relief Funds to support nonprofits disproportionately impacted by the pandemic
DENVER, CO – The House passed a bill today to support local nonprofits that have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. This bill invests $35 million in federal Economic Recovery and Relief funds to build stronger communities. HB22-1356 passed by a vote of 44 to 19.
“When the pandemic hit, our nonprofits adapted to meet the needs of some of our most underserved communities,” said Rep. Leslie Herod, D-Denver. “This bill directs $35 million in pandemic recovery funds to Colorado’s local nonprofits so they can continue supporting our marginalized communities. Local nonprofits stepped up to provide services that kept our neighbors fed, safe and well-informed during the pandemic. Our bill is more than a thank you, it’s an investment in our communities.”
“We’re one step closer to providing small nonprofits with the financial support they need to continue to serve Colorado communities,” said Rep. Edie Hooton, D-Boulder. “This bill invests in local nonprofits, especially the ones who went above and beyond during the pandemic, so they can keep their doors open and continue to serve our neighbors. Investing federal pandemic recovery dollars in local organizations just makes sense and will foster stronger communities as a result.”
During the 2021 legislative session, the General Assembly set aside $700 million in federal pandemic relief funds to use for economic recovery and relief initiatives in the years ahead.
HB22-1356, sponsored by Representatives Leslie Herod and Edie Hooton, will provide $35 million in federal pandemic relief funds to nonprofit social service organizations that have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. Small community-based nonprofits have played an important role in delivering essential services to families and communities that were directly impacted by the pandemic. These organizations continue to fill critical gaps, but face significant challenges as they respond to longstanding community needs that were only exacerbated by the pandemic.
Financial constraints often limit these organizations’ ability to serve additional Coloradans and those constraints are more challenging under recent economic conditions.
The grants are designed to support small community-based nonprofits that largely serve individuals who were disproportionately impacted by the pandemic and experienced significant financial pressures. Eligible entities will be able to apply for grants as large as $100,000 to expand program capacity, foster professional development for employees or engage in strategic planning to grow their organization and maximize the use of funds.