The main funding priority for the 2024-25 Human Services Grant program is: Homeless prevention including affordable and alternative housing, supportive services, and transitional housing.

The following additional priority funding areas are not listed in order of importance

• Hunger and malnutrition prevention
• Supportive physical and mental health services for those in need
• Services for seniors, veterans and/or people with disabilities in need
• Supportive, developmental, and care services for children and youth in need
• Services encouraging diversity, equity, and inclusion in marginalized communities, including access to language services.

• Organizations that received the Human Service Grant during the 2023 -24 funding cycle who have not complied with all reporting requirements will not be considered for the 2024-25 grant cycle.
• Grants are primarily made to organizations serving residents in the City of San Luis Obispo. Agencies serving residents in neighboring communities, also serving a significant number of City residents will be considered.
• Grants are made only to non-profit organizations. Applicants' minimum request must be of $5,000 and a maximum of $20,000.
• Organizations must comply with the HRC Bylaws which are to create an environment within the City in which all persons can enjoy equal rights and opportunities regardless of race, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, physical, mental, or economic status. HRC Bylaws can be found on the City’s website HERE.
• Applications for a specific program, project, equipment need, or general operational support will be considered if the organization’s mission falls under one or more of the HRC priority funding areas listed below.
• Non-profit organizations must enter into a contract with the City prior to receipt of HSG funds.
• Applicants must submit a complete application package and within the deadline. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

The Human Relations Commission (HRC) will exercise discretion when developing funding recommendations.

The HRC will review, with support from the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, all applications (that are completed, timely submitted, and met the funding criteria) and develop funding recommendations based on the answers and attestations provided in each applications. Recommendations will be presented to the City Council for approval.

Proposals will be evaluated for meeting an identified and defined program that provides financial support to non-profit organizations that promote the economic and social well-being of the citizens of San Luis Obispo.