Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG)
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) was enacted by the federal government in 1974. Today, it provides annual grants to the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) through the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development that are further allocated on a formula basis to approximately 200 local governments within Pennsylvania.
CDBG is a flexible program that provides communities with resources to address a wide range of unique community development needs, such as infrastructure, housing and community facilities. It also provides funds to develop viable communities through the provision of housing improvements and building suitable living environments, expand economic opportunities geared to low- and moderate-income individuals and improve critical community health and welfare infrastructure.
Annual funding is designated to municipalities through the state entitlement program, which includes counties, cities, boroughs, towns and townships throughout the commonwealth. Project funding is available to eligible local governments through the competitive program set aside for critical infrastructure or revitalization projects.
The CDGB program allocates funds to provide services throughout the city of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County. These funds are a critical resource to Food Bank member agencies, providing nutrition assistance for food insecure residents.
CDBG Policy Priorities
- Federal funding for CDBG has been on the decline over the past several years – except for special funding provided for pandemic relief – which has ultimately affected the Food Bank’s allocation from county and city government. The Food Bank will work to protect CDBG funding at the federal level and continue to advocate for a strong commitment of funds from Allegheny County and City of Pittsburgh governments.