City of Prescott Invites Local Non-Profits to Apply for Grant Dollars to Alleviate Homelessness and Panhandling
In spring 2018, Mayor Greg Mengarelli and the Prescott City Council began the “Change for the Better” initiative to alleviate homelessness and panhandling in the city. There has been an overwhelmingly positive response from the community and this support has provided aid to local non-profits and individuals.
As part of this program, 7 collection meters were installed around the downtown to accept loose change and cash, which is aimed to encourage people to donate to a worthy cause rather than give money on the street. Approximately $8,500 has been raised through the donation meters as well as through online donations. The money raised is funding a grant process for local service providers to further supply transportation and housing needs to help prevent or alleviate homelessness. $3,000 of grants has been distributed to local non-profits for these purposes. In response to this, Mayor Mengarelli stated, “I am excited and grateful for the overwhelming generosity of our community. Because of this, we have been able to raise money that is going towards alleviating panhandling and homelessness in our community. Thank you to all who have contributed to the ongoing success of this initiative.”
The City invites all eligible non-profit organizations who strive to alleviate homelessness and panhandling to apply for grant funding. Funding is available on an ongoing basis as funds are collected.
To see frequent updates, resources, grant awards for non-profits, and to submit online donations and more, please visit the City’s website at www.prescott-az.gov and search “homelessness initiative” in the search bar.