Senator Samra G. Brouk (SD-55) and Assemblyman Demond Meeks (AD-137) secured $30 million in funding with the New York State Black Legislative Task Force (NYSBLT) to support community organizations that uplift underserved communities across the state and held the 11th NYSBLT Statewide Listening tour Thursday evening.

The application is open to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations that provide direct services, civic engagement or capacity building services to individuals and families residing in communities in New York State with the highest disparities in health, education, economic insecurity, and justice involvement. Applicant organizations’ projects must fall within one of the following funding categories to be eligible: Arts and Culture, Capacity Building, Civic Engagement, Criminal Justice Reform, Education, Health (Behavioral & Mental, Physical), or Workforce Development.

This multi-million dollar funding opportunity, made possible by the New York State Legislature, will seek 501(c)(3) non-profit applicants and marks a necessary step forward in addressing historical disparities and strengthening the social and economic infrastructure in communities throughout New York State. Interested 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations can use this link to learn more and apply for the funding. The deadline for applications is Monday, November 17 at 5 p.m.

The NYSBLT Fiscal Conduit Consortium, composed of the Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities, the Federation of Protestant Welfare Agencies, Inc. (FPWA), the New York Urban League (NYUL), and the United Way of New York State, will be responsible for overseeing the application process, reviewing submissions, and distributing the grant program funding.

Senator Samra Brouk (SD-55): “Local non-profit organizations are facing increased pressure to make ends meet while supporting our most underserved community members. Our district deserves life changing investments– that is why I worked to secure $30 million in funding with Assemblyman Meeks and my colleagues in the New York State Black Legislative Task Force. This funding is designed to support initiatives targeting healthcare access, educational opportunities, mental health and wellness, and other critical areas to uplift residents in need and empower future generations.”

Assemblyman Demond Meeks: “I am proud that $30 million in funding secured through the New York State Black Legislative Task Force that will support organizations in Rochester and across New York State. These local nonprofits are doing the essential work of uplifting our communities and serve as neighborhood anchors. They mentor youth, support families, and create pathways to opportunity, often without the resources they need to achieve their missions fully. This funding will help these organizations grow their capacity to execute their programs and continue serving our neighborhoods in meaningful ways. By investing in the groups on the frontline of this work, organizations that consistently provide quality services and inspire positive change, we are strengthening our community, advancing equity, and expanding opportunities.”

Task Force Chairwoman Assemblymember Chantel Jackson (D-Bronx): “Rochester marks the eleventh stop on our Statewide Listening Tour, and with one of our funding applications now open, I’m grateful we were able to walk organizations through the process tonight. Ensuring applicants have clarity is essential. Our goal is simple: to make sure this funding fulfills its purpose — uplifting underserved communities across New York State.”