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Local nonprofits ask Upland CDBG panel for funds to feed, clothe and support residents
Summary
Nonprofits and community groups presented requests to Upland's CDBG advisory committee for programs including school clothing, food pantries, case management and senior meals; requests ranged from $5,000 to $60,000 for capital and program support.
A mix of Upland nonprofits and faith‑based groups outlined requests to the Community Development Block Grant advisory committee on Wednesday, emphasizing rising food and program costs and the local impact of their services.
Cindy Hall, grant chair for the Assistance League of the Foothill Communities, asked for $8,000 for Operation School Bell, which supplies new school clothing through a Kohl’s partnership. "Tonight, we are asking that you consider supporting us with a grant of $8,000 to help meet our budget needs for our Operation School Bell program," Hall said, noting the chapter’s broader regional budget and the local share of beneficiaries.
Veronica Aguas Vargas described His Hands Food Pantry’s operations and requested $18,000 to maintain food purchases and outreach. "Just those bills alone are $1,500, and I know that's not gonna last us more than a week," Vargas said, explaining that rising prices and culturally appropriate food needs are increasing her pantry’s expenses.
Other presenters included Inland Valley Hope Partners (requesting $10,000 for a Silva center distribution and monthly Upland distribution), Pacific Lifeline (case management; $8,000 requested), Ovation School for the Performing Arts (youth performing‑arts program) and Connect Senior Services (Meals on Wheels kitchen rehab; $60,000 requested toward a $74,455 project). Committee members questioned budget detail, local resident percentages and whether requested funds would cover personnel or direct program costs.
The committee agreed to spread the available $90,000 among multiple providers and asked staff to provide technical assistance to new subrecipients to ensure compliance with CDBG reimbursement and reporting rules. Several smaller requests were partially funded; final amounts will be included in the draft annual action plan to council for approval.
