Lowell Non Profit Subcommittee - May 5, 2026

The Lowell Nonprofit Subcommittee meeting held on May 5, 2026, focused primarily on the challenges faced by local nonprofits due to recent funding cuts and changes in federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) regulations. Several nonprofit leaders expressed concerns about their applications being disqualified or denied funding due to language on their websites related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, which conflicted with new HUD guidelines. The subcommittee discussed the need for clearer communication and support from the city, including establishing regular monthly meetings and clarifying how the city plans to work in-house to support nonprofits. Motions were passed to request a detailed report from the city manager outlining the CDBG funding process and the city's future plans to assist nonprofits. The meeting highlighted the impact of funding decisions on vulnerable populations, including food insecurity and substance use disorder recovery programs, and emphasized the importance of collaboration between the city and nonprofit organizations to address these issues.