Nonprofit funding reinstated in Monroe following previous distribution pause

MONROE, N.C. — The Monroe City Council voted to release funding for local outside agencies, ending a pause on distributions to nonprofit organizations in the city.

The decision brings relief to community groups that faced potential funding gaps while waiting for municipal support.

The city had previously paused all nonprofit funding due to a discrepancy involving the outside agency fund. Concerns were also raised by the mayor regarding a board member who votes on non-profit allocations.

The council moved to reinstate the nonprofit funding through a budget amendment. Councilmember Surluta Anthony, who sits on the non-profit funding board, recused herself from the discussion and vote on the amendment.

The reinstated budget did not fully fund some nonprofit requests. Common Heart, an organization that provides food pantries and programs to assist people moving out of poverty, requested $25,000 but was allocated $15,000 by the city.

Keith Adams, executive director of Common Heart, said the municipal funding supports one of the group’s upward mobility programs.

“It would have been nice to have had that increase of funding that we actually requested,” Adams said. “But I understand that funds are tight and that they have certain priorities, and I am thankful for what they were able to provide for us.”

Adams noted that while public contributions sustain most of the organization’s operations, municipal assistance remains vital.

“Common Heart is funded primarily because of the generosity of the community itself,” Adams said. “So we’re not totally dependent on this funding, but it makes a huge difference.”

Adams emphasized the local impact of the city’s allocation. “It’s funding that is definitely necessary in our community and to support the city of Monroe residents,” Adams said.

Before any funds can be disbursed, nonprofits must sign an agreement with the city of Monroe to receive payments on a reimbursement basis.

Common Heart reported that it has not yet received the contract. Outside organizations typically receive municipal funding on a quarterly schedule, with the next payment period in October.

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