This press release was written by Desiree DeMolina for City of Bloomington.
BLOOMINGTON, IND. – The City of Bloomington has partnered with the South Central Community Action Program (SCCAP) to distribute $1 million in Economic Equity funds to support residents facing financial challenges. Announced in December 2023, this partnership aims to support local residents facing financial challenges through equitable distribution managed by SCCAP’s Growing Opportunities department.
Half of the funds will be allocated towards alleviating medical debt, a burden that significantly impacts family stability and well-being. The remaining half will address essential needs such as childcare arrears, property taxes, rental deposits, late fees, menstrual equity, and medically specific diets, crucial for creating and maintaining safe and healthy living conditions.
Statistics indicate that approximately one in six Indiana residents struggle with medical debt in collections. Through SCCAP’s initiative, eligible Bloomington residents will receive grants, coupled with assistance from SCCAP’s Covering Kids and Families team to evaluate insurance needs and prevent future medical debt. SCCAP will also facilitate access to vital services including Energy Assistance, Weatherization, Housing Resources, and Early Childhood Education.
Partnering with local organizations, SCCAP has initiated a phased rollout of these funds, with debt relief applications now open and ongoing disbursements until funds are exhausted.
To qualify, applicants must be employed and reside or work within Bloomington’s city limits. Funding decisions will be made based on individual circumstances following an online application and interview with SCCAP staff. The application portal can be accessed by clicking this link.
About South Central Community Action Program (SCCAP):
SCCAP, based in Bloomington, IN, has served low-income individuals for over 55 years. Their mission is to empower community members towards economic independence through programs like Thriving Connections, Growing Opportunities, and Head Start in Monroe County. SCCAP also administers services including Energy Assistance, Weatherization, Covering Kids & Families, and manages the Indiana Emergency Rental Assistance Fund and Housing Choice Opportunities across multiple counties. Annually, SCCAP supports over 4,000 families, impacting more than 9,000 individuals, without discrimination based on race, age, religion, gender, or disability.
