Roseville, Calif. – At its June 1 meeting, the Roseville City Council approved the award of more than $400,000 in grants to 52 non-profit organizations serving the residents of Roseville.Â
This is the 23rd year that the City has awarded grants from the Citizens Benefit Fund (CBF) with funds generated from interest earned on the invested proceeds from the sale of the former Roseville Community Hospital. Since 1993, the City of Roseville has awarded $14.9 million to local non-profit agencies.
Funds were also distributed from money donated by City of Roseville employees and retirees to the Roseville Employees Annual Charitable Hearts (R.E.A.C.H.) Fund, founded in 2003.
"It took incredible foresight on the part of the Roseville City Council at that time to set aside-and not spend-the proceeds from the hospital sale in order to create an ongoing source of funding to meet many needs in our community for years to come," said Mayor Carol Garcia. "We make this investment in our community to enhance the quality of life for Roseville residents."
The non-profit A Touch of Understanding is one of this year's grant recipients. It provides disability-awareness programs to promote acceptance and respect as it helps people understand the challenges associated with disabilities.
"Thanks to this grant, we're able to help schoolchildren, including children with disabilities and those who seem different for any reason, feel comfortable in their social circles," said Executive Director Leslie DeDora. "The culture on Roseville school campuses is healthier and safer because students learn to appreciate, rather than fear differences."
Seniors First provides transportation, meals, socialization, caregiver support and resources to support Placer County senior citizens.
"Often overlooked and severely underserved, the senior population in Placer County is rapidly rising with no indication of slowing anytime soon," said Executive Director Jamee Horning. "Thanks to support from the City of Roseville's grants, Seniors First is able to continue vital programs that address some of the most pressing senior needs in an effort to keep older and disabled residents of Placer County healthy, happy, and independent in their own homes."
The Roseville Grants Advisory Commission consisting of City Council appointed Roseville citizens annually reviews grant applications. During a regular City Council meeting in May of each year, the commission makes funding recommendations to the City Council for approval.
More information about the Roseville Grants Advisory Commission and the City's grant funds can be found at www.roseville.ca.us/grants