SUPPORT Youth and Families
A successful community requires a variety of support systems and an environment that enables our residents to flourish and grow . Our public and private education institutions of all levels provide essential elements of this formula , and the City of Arlington will continue to support their efforts in collaborative ways . Additionally , the City seeks to provide programs and services to directly support youth and their families , enabling them to reach their highest potential in life .
FEDERAL GRANT FUNDING
$ 6 MILLION APPROVED FOR JOB READINESS , HOUSING ASSISTANCE , HEALTH SERVICES
The Arlington City Council approved the Program Year 2022 Action Plan to prioritize nearly $ 6 million in federal grants for activities addressing housing and homelessness , quality childcare , mental health , food insecurity and substance abuse in our community . These funds , provided by the U . S . Department of Housing and Urban Development , will help almost 17,000 residents receive adult literacy , child care , senior services , health services , transportation , homeless and special needs services , or youth services .
ARLINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY GOES FINE-FREE
The Arlington Public Library went fine-free in October 2022 , joining hundreds of libraries across the country in removing fines to help eliminate financial barriers and provide more equitable service . Library card holders are no longer charged for returning items past their due date .
Additionally , the Arlington waived all overdue fines that were on patrons ’ accounts . Overdue fines have been shown to most impact lower-income communities , creating a barrier to library services . By going fine-free , the library hopes to encourage the community to take full advantage of all the library has to offer .
20