Care First Community Investment Care Grant Strategy 2 (Economic Opportunity & Sustainability)

The Care First Community Investment Care Grant under Strategy 2 Economic Opportunity and Sustainability is administered by the Los Angeles County Justice Care and Opportunities Department in partnership with United Way of Greater Los Angeles acting as a Third Party Administrator. This initiative stems from the County’s broader commitment to reinvest public funds into community based solutions that reduce reliance on incarceration and address systemic inequities. The program aligns with policies originally advanced under Measure J and continues to direct substantial annual funding toward community driven economic and social programs that prioritize historically underserved populations. The purpose of Strategy 2 is to expand economic opportunity and long term sustainability for individuals and communities that have experienced structural exclusion from traditional economic systems. The funding supports a wide range of program areas including workforce development, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, immigrant legal services, and direct economic support programs such as cash assistance. These investments are designed to improve employment outcomes, increase financial stability, promote small business growth, and create equitable access to career pathways across Los Angeles County. Funding is distributed through multiple program areas, each with distinct scopes and allowable uses. Activities may include workforce training programs, subsidized employment models, apprenticeships, legal advocacy services, financial education, and capacity building for nonprofits and small businesses. Funds must be used for direct service delivery and program implementation, and cannot be used for law enforcement purposes. Awards are structured as three year contracts, and funded activities must be completed within the established contract period ending no later than October 30 2029. Eligibility is limited to community based organizations that provide direct services within Los Angeles County. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, fiscally sponsored entities, and business entities such as limited liability companies, provided they meet minimum requirements including at least two years of relevant service experience. Organizations must be in good standing with the California Secretary of State and demonstrate the ability to deliver culturally competent services to historically underserved populations. Priority is given to organizations with annual operating budgets under 1500000 dollars and those that have not previously received County funding. The application process is competitive and requires submission through an online grants portal. Applicants must complete a detailed application including organizational information, program design, budget documentation, and supporting attachments such as financial statements and proof of insurance or insurance intent. The review process includes technical screening followed by scoring based on organizational capacity, program relevance, and projected impact. Independent reviewers evaluate applications using standardized criteria approved by the County, and awards are determined based on alignment with program goals and funding availability. The application timeline for this funding opportunity begins with the opening of the application portal on July 24 2026 and closes on August 24 2026 at 1159 PM Pacific Time. Additional support is provided through optional webinars and office hours, and applicants may submit written questions prior to the deadline. Award notifications are expected in early October 2026, with contract execution shortly thereafter and program implementation beginning upon contract approval. Overall, this funding opportunity represents a significant investment in community led economic development and aims to build sustainable pathways for individuals impacted by systemic inequities. By supporting a diverse range of program models and prioritizing underserved communities, Strategy 2 advances the County’s commitment to equity, economic mobility, and community resilience.

Prioritize serving high need low service ZIP codes; align program clearly with selected program area; demonstrate strong community ties and cultural competency; ensure budget aligns closely with proposed services