Title
Federal Programs Update - Citywide
Description
This report provides information regarding the potential impacts to federal funding on City of Phoenix social service programs administered by City departments as well as those administered by outside agencies. The Human Services, Housing, and Neighborhood Services departments collectively deliver critical services that rely heavily on federal resources to support vulnerable residents, affordable housing initiatives, and neighborhood revitalization efforts. Although other programs are administered by agencies outside of City of Phoenix departments, the federal funding of these social service programs may impact operations and affect Phoenix residents. The report will also address the impacts to Phoenix residents.
There is no immediate financial impact associated with this report; however, changes to federal allocations could result in future budget adjustments, service reductions, or reallocation of local resources.
THIS ITEM IS INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION.
Report
Summary
The City of Phoenix receives significant federal funding annually to support programs that address housing stability, community development, and social services for low-income residents. Primary sources include the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
Recent or anticipated federal budget adjustments may affect local allocations under these programs. The Human Services, Housing, and Neighborhood Services departments are assessing potential funding impacts to ensure continuity of essential services and compliance with federal and local requirements.
The other social service programs that impact vulnerable residents in Phoenix are Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) program administered by the Maricopa County Department of Public Health and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) administered by the Arizona Department of Economic Security. Recent or anticipated federal budget adjustments may affect local allocations under these programs.
As a result of the suspension of SNAP benefits the following actions have been implemented to support residents:
- City Food Resource & Information Website - Human Services Department (HSD) launched a website with information regarding SNAP, emergency food assistance, and city resources such as senior meal program and housing instability services.
- Social Media Campaign - A social media campaign launched October 30 to connect residents with available food resources.
- Citywide Food Drive - In partnership with St. Mary’s Food Bank, a citywide food drive began November 7, inviting both staff and residents to contribute through monetary or food donations at seven City sites and local pantries. Volunteer opportunities are also available.
- Food Education Material Distribution - Food education materials (e.g. healthy meals on a budget) were created and distributed to current City department clients who have been identified as SNAP participants, such as but not limited to Head Start families and HSD Community Service Program clients.
- Senior Center Member Food Box Distribution - Additional food boxes have been requested for distribution at the HSD Senior Centers to support the senior center members who are current SNAP recipients.
Financial Impact
No direct fiscal impact at this time. Future impacts will depend on federal budget allocations and program-specific funding decisions. The departments will provide updates to City Council as federal funding levels are finalized and as program budgets are adjusted accordingly.
Location
Citywide
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Gina Montes and the Human Services, Housing, and Neighborhood Services Departments.