The City of Iowa City is now accepting applications from organizations for the use of federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (SLFRF) funds to address the needs of non-profits who have experienced negative economic impacts as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Applications can be completed using the online form, and will be accepted through August 16, 2022 at noon.

Background information for non-profit agency applicants

In March 2021, President Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Action (ARPA) into law.  This legislation established the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (SLFRF), which provides significant resources to state, local, territorial, and Tribal governments to address impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through this law, the U.S. Treasury has allocated $18.3 million to the City of Iowa City.  SLFRF dollars are intended to both address emergency stabilization needs and help localities make long-term, transformative investments through careful planning and extensive public input.

The Iowa City Council has developed guiding principles to prioritize use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds as well as various programs to meet emergent needs and strategic investments. Because many nonprofits continue to experience financial pressures, increased demand for services, and a shortage of staff and volunteers, the City has allocated ARPA funds for nonprofit pandemic recovery. 

Available Funding

The City Council has allocated a total of $400,000 for ARPA nonprofit pandemic recovery which is available to qualifying projects within the City of Iowa City.

Eligible Activities

Funding may be used for public service activities serving low- and moderate-income (LMI) residents of Iowa City including advocacy, case management, referrals, service coordination, education, counseling, legal assistance, and funding for staff to implement these activities. Funded activities must be related pandemic recovery, economic impacts, or services to disproportionate communities.  Projects must also meet one of the following priority categories:

  • Homelessness assistance or housing stabilization
  • Childcare and youth services
  • Health care including mental health services
  • Food assistance

Applicants are encouraged to contact Neighborhood Services staff with questions about the funding or application process at 319-356-5237 or cgripp@iowa-city.org.  

Date of publication

Friday, July 29, 2022