Smaller non-profits concerned about grant overhaul

June 7, 2016 6:31 pm

By: Rebecca Turco

Email: rturco@abc6.com

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Several smaller non-profits in Rhode Island are anxious, following an overhaul of the community service grant program.

"There are many centers who use this funding to put the lights on," explained Mary Lou Moran, director of the Leon Mathieu Senior Center in Pawtucket.

On Monday, the leaders of the House and Senate announced sweeping changes to how community service grants are awarded.

Around two dozen of the larger grants are being listed as budget appropriations up for discussion. While the 200 or so remaining grants will be distributed by state agencies, not the general assembly.

Leaders expect this process to cut down the $11-million program by $2-million or so.

Moran, is concerned about how these new changes will affect her bottom line, saying if her grant money is reduced: "It could have a devastating impact…The dollars that we receive through these grants are essential and vital to the programs and services that we offer to the community.”

Meanwhile, government watchdog group Common Cause Rhode Island is applauding the new overhaul, saying it benefits true non-profits while exposing any fraudulent ones. “You don’t have to play the political game as much as you might once have had to,” John Marion, executive director, explained. “Hopefully it will add some predictability.”