Gov. Tim Walz recently proclaimed May as Community Action Month, recognizing the significance of Community Action Agencies such as Bi-County Community Action Programs, which serves residents in Beltrami and Cass Counties.
From helping the homeless find and pay for housing, to caring and educating the youngest learners, BI-CAP provides important services to those in need, a release said.
BI-CAP is part of a Community Action Network of national and local organizations connecting people with low and moderate incomes to essential programs and services.
BI-CAP’s mission is to help people experiencing barriers on their paths towards economic stability. More than 5,000 individuals are served each year between Beltrami and Cass Counties, the release said.
The programs include the following:
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Energy Assistance provides financial assistance to households renters or owners to help pay a portion of their home energy and heating bills. Eligible households may also receive help with past due or disconnected water service and eligible homeowners may receive help on non-functioning or malfunctioning heating systems. This program year more than 500 new applications were received. The application period ends on May 31. To apply, contact BI-CAP at (800) 332-7161.
Head Start is a school readiness program that helps learners prepare for kindergarten. Nearly 200 families participate in Head Start, with prenatal support and classes for infant/toddlers and 3- to 4-year-olds. Applications for this fall are currently accepted at www.bicap.org/projects/head-start.
YouthBuild is an educational, leadership and construction training program for participants 16 to 24. YouthBuilders finish their high school diploma or GED and receive construction training. YouthBuild has a current build on 818 Irvine Ave. in Bemidji. The completed home will be sold to a low-income family that qualifies for financing. Sale proceeds are reinvested back into YouthBuild. An open house is from 10 a.m. to noon on Friday, May 20, at 3023 Mill St. NE. Call (218) 333-9868 for more information.
Supportive Housing services range from one-time assistance to ongoing case management and rental subsidies. BI-CAP’s programs typically serve those that are already homeless and are in the greatest need of housing support services. Applications can be picked up at the Bemidji Office, 6603 Bemidji Ave. N, or Walker 8245 Industrial Park Road NW or can be mailed. Call (800) 332-7161 to request an application.
For more information, contact www.bicap.org.
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