ALAMOSA — The City of Alamosa is currently accepting proposals for funding from agencies that address the needs of vulnerable populations within the city limits. Proposals must include a description of a specific service that is provided along with measurable goals and outcomes and a copy of the agency’s current budget.
This request for proposals is part of an existing outside funding program the city has had in place since at least 2013 and includes the requirement that funded agencies provide city council with an annual report citing accomplishments and specifics of how the funding was used.
“This has always been a relatively small pot of money to help programs address issues outside of the City's normal range of services,” says Alamosa’s City Manager Heather Brooks. “The amount of funding is not final until council approves the budget in October, but the total budget for 2024 is anticipated to be the same as the 2023 budget. The total 2023 budget is $70,000 and the funds come from the General Fund.”
Brooks says that, of that $70,000 amount, there are three organizations that have a long history of funding, and the council has locked in their amounts so that they do not need to compete. The organizations are still required to provide results and report to the council on how the funding was used, but the services they provide are ongoing and significant.
A total amount of $54,800 is dedicated to three organizations, including $20,000 to the Boys & Girls Club, $17,000 to Alamosa Senior Citizens and $17,800 to South-Central Colorado Seniors.
The city’s request for proposals will decide how the remaining $15,200 will be spent.
The agencies currently funded for the competitive 2023 funds include La Puente Food Bank — $5,000, La Puente Crisis Prevention — $2,000, Alamosa Veteran Services — $4,000, Alamosa Bicycle Coalition — $700, Veterans Coalition of the San Luis Valley — $2,000 and Alamosa Senior Citizens — $1,500, an additional allocation made based upon increased need.
Proposals are due by 5 p.m. on Aug. 1. All proposals should be submitted to the office of the City Manager and should clearly state on the cover sheet that they are Requests for Assistance for Vulnerable Populations. Terms of service will be from Jan. 1, 2024, to Dec. 31, 2024. The city reserves the right to accept or reject any and all proposals.
