The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) on Tuesday announced that Gov. Kay Ivey had awarded $480,000 in funding for grants geared toward assisting low-income individuals.

Funds totaling $450,000 will be utilized by the Community Action Agencies Association of Alabama to financially support 19 community action agencies across the state. According to ADECA, the grants will be used to provide funding for programs to assist low-income Alabamians improve their lives and achieve self-sufficiency.

ADECA advised that each awarded agency offers varying services depending upon area needs. Such programs include financial assistance for food, rental and utility expenses as well as GED testing fees.

The Community Action Partnership of North Alabama will receive $30,000 in funds which will be used to support low-income senior citizens and disabled individuals’ food program in Marion and Winston Counties.

Ivey noted the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday and asserted that the funds will be instrumental in helping community programs meet the needs of those experiencing financial hardship.

“By assisting those most in need, community action agencies can provide a path to a better life for many families and individuals,” stated the governor. “As we celebrate Thanksgiving this week, we are also reminded how important it is to help those in need. I am pleased to provide these funds to these agencies who work every day to give those who need a helping hand to improve their lives and lift themselves out of poverty.”

As we celebrate Thanksgiving this week, we’re reminded how important it is to help those in need. I’m pleased to provide these funds to these agencies who work every day to give to those who need a helping hand to improve their lives & lift themselves out of poverty. #alpolitics https://t.co/qZwY6YdLgV

— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) November 23, 2021

ADECA noted that it will administer the grants from funds set aside by the state legislature in the Alabama General Fund budget. Department director Kenneth Boswell commended Ivey for her support of the receiving programs.

“ADECA is proud to support Gov. Ivey’s efforts to improve the lives of some of our most vulnerable residents,” said Boswell. “Our partnerships with these agencies across the state continues to make an impact.”

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL