The Community Services Block Grant Program (CSBG) is designed to provide a range of services which assist low-income people to attain skills, knowledge and self-sufficiency.  This program also provides emergency services.  This program is funded through the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. 


Christmas Projects- Food baskets and Adopt-A-Family Christmas Program in participating counties.

Emergency Services- Provides food, shelter, medication and transportation in emergency situations.

Employee Support Program- Provides assistance with employment related expenses for uniforms, car repairs, etc. for low-income working individuals.

Family and Community Development (FCD)- Provides a program to assess a family's needs and resources and work with the family to devise a plan which will lead them to self-sufficiency.

Fund Loan- Provides low interest loans to businesses for start up or expansion.  The business must hire low-income people as a condition of this loan. 

Information/Referrals- Provide information and referrals to link low-income people with various resources.

Job Placement/Development- Provides job placement and development activities for low-income individuals.

Scholarships- Provides competitive scholarships to low-income students who are attending an Illinois college.


Additional programs available through this department (pending availability of funds):

• Clothing Pantries- Check your local county office
• DHS Homeless Prevention- rent/deposit, mortgage and utility assistance for those experiencing a temporary economic crisis.
• DHS Front Door Program- employment related expenses, must qualify and obtain a referral through the DHS public aid office.
• Emergecy and Transitional Houisng- Temporary homeless assistance
• EFSP Program- emergency food, shelter, rent and utility assistance

        2012 CSBG Income Guidelines: