The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority (ICJIA) announced it will make $7.1 million in funding available to organizations providing support services and resources to communities hit hardest by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Interested organizations must submit an application to ICJIA by July 24th. The funding is provided through the U.S. Bureau of Justice Assistance Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program and will support communities that have been disproportionately impacted by the virus. Funds can be used for:

• Transitional and/or emergency housing and rental assistance for persons involved in the criminal justice system and those who have experienced violence.

• Supportive services for community members, including overall advocacy, case management, legal services, mental and emotional support, and clinical behavioral health services for adults and children.

• Rent, utilities, and COVID-related supplies for community-based agency operations.

• Efforts to distribute food to local residents.

• Other needs resulting from the pandemic, as determined by communities.

Community-level data on positive COVID cases, unemployment, housing, and reentry will be considered in funding decisions. Proposals are due by 11:59 pm on Friday, July 24th. For more information, visit www.icjia.state.il.us.