Clinton City Council approves $2M CDBG CV grant for YWCA homelessness operations

During the Regular City Council meeting held on May 27, 2025, in Clinton, Iowa, significant discussions centered around a public hearing regarding a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application aimed at supporting homeless shelter operations. The council convened to address the urgent need for assistance in light of a growing homelessness crisis in the area.

The public hearing was initially opened to gather input from citizens, although no comments were received from attendees, either in person or online. Following this, Council Member Summers introduced a resolution to approve the CDBG application for the YWCA Clinton, which is seeking funding to enhance its homelessness operations. The resolution was adopted unanimously by the council members present.

The YWCA Clinton is one of 14 agencies statewide eligible for the CDBG-CV funds, which amount to $2 million and must be utilized within a year. This funding is crucial as it will support emergency shelters and cover operational expenses such as staffing, utilities, and maintenance. The need for this funding was underscored by alarming statistics: the YWCA's helpline has received an average of 600 calls per quarter from individuals facing homelessness or housing insecurity. Additionally, the Clinton Community School District reported over 200 students experiencing homelessness, highlighting the pervasive nature of this issue within the community.

The council emphasized that the funding would not only provide immediate shelter but also connect individuals to essential housing resources and supportive services. The urgency of addressing homelessness was further reinforced by the county's health needs assessment, which identified homelessness as a critical health concern.

In conclusion, the council's actions reflect a proactive approach to tackling homelessness in Clinton. The approval of the CDBG application marks a significant step towards providing necessary support for vulnerable community members. As the city moves forward, the implementation of these funds will be closely monitored to ensure they effectively address the pressing needs of those experiencing housing insecurity.