#United States #Black History Month #New Jersey Community Capital #Economic Equity #Dallas, New York City, Newark, New Brunswick, Los Angeles

New Jersey Community Capital Pledges Funds for Change

In an inspiring move to honor Black History Month, New Jersey Community Capital (NJCC), a prominent community development financial institution, has announced a grant of $50,000 aimed at supporting nonprofits in five cities across the United States. The funds, to be awarded at a rate of $10,000 each, will enable selected nonprofits to drive transformative change within their communities.

This initiative highlights NJCC’s commitment to economic equity and social justice by directly engaging with local leaders—including mayors and county executives—who have meticulously selected the recipient organizations. This year, the nonprofits benefiting from the grant are located in Dallas, Texas; Newark, New Jersey; New York City, New York; New Brunswick, New Jersey; and Los Angeles County, California.

Focus on Community Leaders

The selection process emphasizes collaboration with local leaders who possess a nuanced understanding of their community's needs. Bernel Hall, President and CEO of NJCC, articulated the program's dual objectives: to honor the principles embodied in Black History Month while providing targeted support to local initiatives that strive for economic parity.

“Our grants not only champion the acknowledgment of Black History Month, but they also underscore our dedication to creating a social and economic balance wherever possible,” Hall stated. “By working with municipal leaders to identify critical projects, we're fostering the groundwork necessary for prosperous, equitable communities.”

Grants and Their Impact

Dallas, Texas

In Dallas, the $10,000 grant will support The Senior Source, a nonprofit focused on empowering active seniors and securing the wellbeing of older adults. Mayor Eric L. Johnson lauded this organization as vital for a community with a burgeoning senior population, stating, “This contribution will have a meaningful impact on uplifting one of our most vulnerable communities.”

Los Angeles, California

Meanwhile, in Los Angeles County, Director Kelly LoBianco aims to use the funds to propel the Economic Opportunity Department's initiatives, particularly in the wake of the damaging wildfires that affected local businesses. This financial support is intended to expedite recovery processes for small businesses struggling with economic downturns, emphasizing a commitment to long-term resilience and growth.

New Brunswick, New Jersey

New Brunswick's Mayor James M. Cahill has chosen Elijah’s Promise, a nonprofit dedicated to fighting hunger and poverty through culinary skills training and food distribution. Cahill highlighted that NJCC's contribution is an investment in hope and opportunity for those facing food insecurity. In Cahill's eyes, it is imperative to ensure that no one in his community goes hungry.

New York City, New York

In the bustling metropolis of New York City, Mayor Eric Adams highlighted the grant directed toward The Mayor's Fund to Advance New York City. This initiative addresses critical mental health service gaps and aims at enhancing workforce development opportunities. Adams articulated the importance of acknowledging historical contributions while ensuring equitable access to resources for all New Yorkers.

Newark, New Jersey

Finally, Newark’s Mayor Ras Baraka has directed funds to the Clinton Hill Community Action, emphasizing its grassroots efforts to revitalize communities and promote economic empowerment. Baraka appreciates the importance of NJCC’s grant in providing more opportunities for community development and resilience in a rapidly changing urban landscape.

Looking Forward

As NJCC concludes this year's program, Hall expressed a commitment to expand its grant initiatives nationally. Last year, NJCC supported various nonprofits, including the NAACP Atlantic City Youth Council and the Newark Community Impact Fund. The continuation of this grant signifies NJCC's dedication to collaborative community efforts in fostering a more equitable future for the regions they serve.

The pledge of $50,000 not only underscores NJCC’s strong commitment to catalyzing change but also reinforces the critical role that localized nonprofits play in the quests for economic growth and social progress. With a united focus on addressing community-specific challenges, NJCC's partnership with local leaders aims to pave the way for enhanced wellbeing and resilience for underserved populations nationwide.