Guide to Local Recovery Update: August 18

This week in Guide to Local Recovery: FEMA extends local government cost reimbursement for Project Roomkey; USDA grant opportunities available to expand COVID-19 vaccine access for rural communities; NLC American Rescue Plan Act webinar this week

The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced yesterday that it will continue to reimburse local governments for Project Roomkey costs through the rest of the year. Additionally, the United States Department of Agriculture recently made up to $500 million in grants available to rural communities to help expand access to COVID-19 vaccines and healthcare services. Lastly, the National League of Cities will hold a webinar on how cities can use American Rescue Plan funds to support small businesses and entrepreneurs.

FEMA Extends Local Government Cost Reimbursement for Project Roomkey

On Tuesday, the Federal Emergency Management Agency announced it will continue to reimburse local governments for Project Roomkey costs through December 31, 2021.  This program has helped cities house thousands of individuals experiencing homelessness since the beginning of the pandemic.

Grant opportunity available for rural communities to expand vaccine access

On August 12, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) made up to $500 million in grants available to help rural communities expand access to COVID-19 vaccines, health care services, and nutrition assistance. Applicants may apply for two types of assistance: Recovery Grants and Impact Grants. The former provides immediate relief to address the economic conditions caused by COVID-19. The latter supports the long-term sustainability of rural health. Recovery Grant applications will be accepted until funds are expended. Impact Grant applications must be submitted to local USDA Rural Development State Offices by 4:00 p.m. on Oct. 12, 2021.

National League of Cities American Rescue Plan Act webinar this week

The National League of Cities (NLC) will host a webinar on how cities are using ARPA fiscal recovery funds to support small businesses and entrepreneurs on Thursday, August 19 at noon. The webinar, “Leveraging ARPA Fiscal Recovery Funds to Support Small Businesses,” will provide information on policy approaches being developed, the kinds of businesses being targeted for support, and considerations to be made prior to implementing a city policy or program.

City officials looking for additional information about the American Rescue Plan Act and additional tools for recovery can visit the Cal Cities Guide to Local Recovery webpage.