STORM RECOVERY – MAINE’S COMMUNITY ACTION PROGRAMS TAKE ON A NEW PROJECT
An 80+ year old couple had tears in their eyes when told by housing Community Action staff that assistance was available for the repair of their roof and ceiling that had been damaged from the storms that occurred April 28 - May 14, 2008. Never had these seniors anticipated that a year and a half later, they would have reprieve from their leaking roof.
The State of Maine was among just 20 states that found themselves awarded monies this year for disasters that occurred in 2008. When knowledge of this valuable resource came to the attention of the Department of Health and Human Services, the question arose, "How can nearly $2.5 million be disbursed statewide for a disaster that took place over a year ago. What entity would have the capacity to quickly organize themselves to implement such an undertaking?" The answer, CAPs.
Community Action Programs have a long standing record of providing the types of assistance targeted for Disaster Relief aid as well as having a statewide infrastructure in place to manage the administration of these funds. From managing sophisticated contracting work through new home construction, home repair and weatherization to case management, CAPs have the experience and expertise to meet the needs of residents of the communities they serve.
Within four months of receiving the money from the state, the CAPs had provided outreach about the program statewide, solicited more than 250 applications and funded nearly $1.5 million of the Requests for Assistance. Still, the need outweighs the resources. So in accordance with standard operating protocol, MCAA seeks to solicit additional resources through blended funding and partnerships with local, state and federal entities.
MCAA wishes to thank and congratulate its partners in these efforts, the 10 local CAP agencies, the emergency management entities, state and federal programs and local non-profits.
The SSBG Flood Recovery Program continues to be in operation until all funds are exhausted or until the contract deadline, September 30, 2010.
MCAA stands ready with their affiliate CAPs to administer statewide programs and projects that impact the low-income populations we serve.