What is the Public Service Grant?

Public Service Grants are federally-funded grants made to local nonprofit organizations serving Pittsburgh residents with low and moderate incomes. Awarded projects will provide direct services to vulnerable populations.

The Public Service grant has funded projects such as food pantries, youth programs, job training, career counseling, literacy programs, senior activity programs, and more.

How do I apply?

Application Overview Video

Community Development team created a video to explaining the Public Service grant application process and program updates for 2024.


Click here to download the Public Service Grant presentation slides

Q & A Sessions

Two Q & A sessions were held in March. Click here to download a copy of the questions and their answers.

What organizations are eligible?

Organizations seeking Public Service funds must:

  • Be a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with
    • A Board of Directors
    • Articles of Incorporation
    • Written bylaws
    • A mission that supports City of Pittsburgh residents
  • Demonstrate financial management capacity
  • Have filed an IRS Form 990 (990-N, 990-EZ, or 990) last year
  • Have a Unique Entity ID (UEI) and full registration at SAM.gov
    • Additional information on navigating this process is available on the City's website
  • Have no outstanding financial liabilities with the City of Pittsburgh, or demonstrate an approved payment plan
  • Have current general liability insurance
  • Have current worker's compensation insurance (only required if organization has paid staff)

What projects are eligible?

Public Service Grant funds are complimentary, not operational funds. These reimbursement grants should be used to augment existing programs by organizations doing work in one of the following eligible categories:

  • Food Banks
  • Senior Services or Programming
  • Youth Services or Programming
  • Services for Severely Disabled Adults
  • Employment Training
  • Substance Abuse Services
  • Physical Health Services
  • Mental Health Services
  • Intimate Partner Violence Services
  • Services for Individuals with HIV/AIDS
  • Housing Counseling
  • Homelessness Prevention
  • Tenant/Landlord Counseling
  • Legal Services
  • Crime Awareness/Prevention
  • Childcare Services

Grant requests should be for at least $10,000 and applicants are unlikely to receive more than $50,000.

Photos

These photos show program participants from past grant recipients. Photos shared by courtesy of the organizations.