Md. ENOUGH Initative grants aim to end childhood poverty, applications open
MARYLAND – The fight against childhood poverty in Maryland is getting a shot in the arm. Applications are now open for grant funding under the Engaging Neighborhoods, Organizations, Unions, Governments and Households (ENOUGH) Act.
Designed With Communities in Mind
The $20 million initiative is a first-in-the-nation state-led, place-based investment strategy. Maryland Governor Wes Moore says the program was designed with struggling communities in mind, asking their leaders to identify challenges and potential solutions that will fit their needs.
“The ones who are closest to the challenges often times have solutions; they’re just hardly ever at the table,” Gov. Moore said in a video release. “By providing funding and technical supports to organizations closest to the issues, we will address concentrated poverty, and promote economic mobility for children and families all across [the] state.”
“Everybody can thrive,”
During the 2024 legislative session, Gov. Moore urged lawmakers to pass the ENOUGH Act, which went into effect on July 1st.
According to the Notice of Funding Opportunity letter, awards will be granted to projects priortizing healthy families, safe communities, economic mobility, and successful transitions from the classroom to the workforce.
“By supporting [those solutions], we will build a Maryland where everybody can thrive, from the Eastern Shore to Western Maryland, and everywhere in between,” Gov. Moore said in the video release.
Eligibility and Collaboration
Eligible communities must include at least one U.S. Census tract where more than 30% of children are living in poverty. In addition, they must be served by a Maryland community school with a concentration of poverty level of at least 80%. On the Eastern Shore, communities in both Caroline and Dorchester Counties would be eligible.
Regardless of where in the state the projects are located, officials say collaboration will be key.
“We are bringing every state agency that impacts child poverty to the table and building a collective, statewide support system for our children and families,” said Governor’s Office for Children Special Secretary Carmel Martin in a news release.
Looking Ahead
Awardees will receive different amounts. Depending on how large the project is, and the plan for development, grant amounts could range from $65,000 for one year, to $5 million over three years.
The deadline to submit notice of intent to apply for the grants is on July 19th, and applications are due on September 20th. Grants are expected to be awarded in 2025.
To learn more about eligibility and the application process, click here.
