URBANA, Ill. (WAND) — The city of Urbana has made history after approving its largest general fund for social services. City leaders said this investment could have a lasting impact on the needs of the community.
"Youth outreach, domestic violence outreach, homelessness. Any of the organizations that are really focused on the community outreach aspect, they will have an opportunity to access these funds," said Urbana Mayor Deshawn Williams.
More than half a million dollars are being poured into social services. After doing this year's budget, the city was able to find $628,000.
"This is going to allow for us to ensure that the organizations who specialize in these programs, who are working directly with community members, have the necessary resources and funding to not only continue the work that they're doing, but to expound on their work and touch more families," said Williams.
Community organizations need access to funding to address issues like mental health and support for families. Mayor DeShawn Williams said this investment is targeted toward long-term well-being and stability.
"I wanted to empower my team to stretch ourselves beyond comfort and ensure that we are here for our community, and that we are doing our necessary part in ensuring that we provide the necessary resources for the experts and organizations that are directly in the field," said Williams.
With so much uncertainty in federal funds, Williams hopes this funding will make a real difference in people's lives.
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