January 28, 2025 — The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has issued Memorandum M-25-13, directing all federal agencies to pause the obligation and disbursement of financial assistance programs. The directive, signed by Acting OMB Director Matthew J. Vaeth, is part of a broader effort to align federal spending with the priorities of President Donald J. Trump’s administration. Key Highlights of the Memorandum: Temporary Pause: Effective January 28, 2025, at 5:00 PM, federal agencies must halt activities related to grants, loans, and other financial assistance programs unless mandated by law. Presidential Priorities: The pause allows for a comprehensive review of programs to ensure federal funding supports the administration’s goals, including strengthening national security, promoting American energy and manufacturing, and eliminating initiatives tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), as well as other initiatives deemed inconsistent with the administration's objectives. Scope: The memorandum applies to all federal financial assistance except individual entitlements such as Medicare and Social Security. It also impacts open Notices of Funding Opportunity (NOFOs), which are now on hold pending further guidance. Agency Actions Required: Agencies must assign oversight of financial assistance programs to senior political appointees, review and potentially modify or cancel existing awards, and submit detailed reports to OMB by February 10, 2025. The memorandum explicitly links this review to a series of executive orders issued on January 20, 2025, emphasizing a pivot away from previous policies associated with equity, environmental initiatives, and gender ideology. What’s Next? Federal agencies must submit program analyses and compliance updates to OMB for evaluation. Exceptions to the pause may be granted on a case-by-case basis. The administration has clarified that this directive does not affect statutory deadlines or legally required actions but aims to enhance oversight and efficiency in federal spending. For further details, read the full OMB memorandum.

PIN Fellowship: Empowering Georgia’s Emerging Leaders Through Innovation and Collaboration

The City of Colquitt has been awarded a significant Community HOME Investment Program (CHIP) Grant, presenting a remarkable opportunity to uplift the city and its residents. This grant aims to make essential home repairs for eligible low and moderate-income homeowners within Colquitt's city limits, with priority given to residents aged 62 and older. A Brighter Future for Colquitt The CHIP Grant represents a significant step toward improving living conditions and fostering a stronger community in Colquitt. Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), the program focuses on: Replacing deteriorated roof Upgrading electrical and plumbing systems Improving heating systems Weatherizing homes for energy conservation Removing potential lead hazards By ensuring safe and sanitary housing, this program not only benefits individual homeowners but also strengthens the fabric of the entire community. How to Take Advantage of This Opportunity Homeowners interested in benefiting from this transformative program are encouraged to participate Call-In Event Wednesday, February 26, 2025 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM 1-888-467-7814 During the event, residents can learn more about the CHIP Grant, request application forms, and begin their journey toward essential home improvements. To apply, residents will need: A completed application form Proof of income, property ownership, tax receipts, utility services, and fire insurance Valid identification Building a Stronger Colquitt This grant not only addresses immediate housing needs but also contributes to the long-term growth and resilience of the city. The CHIP Grant symbolizes Colquitt’s commitment to its residents and its future as a thriving, inclusive community. For more information, contact Kesha Lavette, City Clerk, at 229.758.1000 or email: klavette@colquittga.gov. *Don’t miss this chance to create a better future for yourself and your community. Join the Call-In Event on February 26th and take the first step toward a brighter, safer home!

A Transformative Opportunity for Damascus: CHIP Grant Brings Vital Home Repairs The City of Damascus is stepping into a brighter future with the help of the Community HOME Investment Program (CHIP) Grant. This program offers an incredible opportunity for eligible homeowners to make critical repairs to their homes, improving safety, comfort, and quality of life. What the CHIP Grant Means for Damascus This grant, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), provides the resources to address significant housing issues within Damascus. By focusing on low and moderate-income families, the grant helps ensure that all residents can live in homes that are safe, sanitary, and energy-efficient. Key benefits of the CHIP Grant include: - Repairing and replacing deteriorated roof systems - Updating outdated electrical and plumbing systems - Improving heating systems for greater comfort and energy efficiency - Weatherization for energy conservation - Removing potential lead hazards This program prioritizes residents aged 62 and older, making it a lifeline for Damascus’ senior citizens. How Damascus Residents Can Get Involved To take advantage of this remarkable opportunity, homeowners are encouraged to participate in the **Call-In Event** on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM . Call 1-888-467-7814 This event allows interested applicants to learn more about the program, receive application forms, and start the process of transforming their homes. For more information , contact Latoya Salter, City Clerk, at **229.725.4970** or **cityofdamascus@att.net**.

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC), located in Camilla, Georgia, has been awarded a $1,000,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Older Adults Home Modification Program (OAHMP). This funding will enable SWGRC to complete essential safety and functional home modifications for 100 eligible senior homeowners and renters aged 62 and older in rural areas, ensuring safer living environments and promoting successful aging in place. This initiative focuses on addressing home hazards that may otherwise force seniors to leave their homes, such as fall risks and accessibility challenges. The grant allows for targeted modifications tailored to the needs of low-income seniors, empowering them to maintain their independence while improving their overall quality of life. Enhancing Safety for Southwest Georgia Seniors SWGRC’s efforts under this grant will focus on low-cost, high-impact modifications such as: Installing grab bars and handrails. Improving lighting to reduce fall risks. Enhancing bathroom accessibility. Repairing and maintaining home structures to ensure safety. By reducing hazards and promoting fall prevention, the program ensures that seniors can continue living comfortably and independently in their own homes. With this funding, the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission continues its vital work of improving lives and empowering seniors to remain safe and comfortable in their homes. The program not only benefits individual residents but also strengthens the social and economic fabric of rural Southwest Georgia. Contact Information For more details about the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission’s OAHMP project, please contact Barbara Reddick at breddick@swgrc.org or call (229) 522-3552 . Click here to view the official announcement .

Kick-Off Meeting: Baker County & City of Newton Pre-Hazard Mitigation Plan

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission is proud to recognize the outstanding commitment of its council members Eddie Hopkins, Ferrell Ruis, Jon Howard, Dwight Hickman, Ed Ament, and Melvin Harris, who achieved perfect attendance at all meetings this year. This achievement reflects their dedication to the mission of the Regional Commission and their steadfast commitment to serving the communities of Southwest Georgia. Attending every meeting is a significant accomplishment, demonstrating their reliability and devotion to the work of improving the region. The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission thanks these council members for their exceptional service and consistent presence. Their dedication ensures that the commission continues to thrive and meet the needs of the communities it serves. Congratulations to Eddie Hopkins, Ferrell Ruis, Jon Howard, Dwight Hickman, Ed Ament, and Melvin Harris for a job well done!

NADTC Announces 2024 Rural Community Innovations Grantees

This grant program will support rural Georgia communities’ economic development efforts and maintain and improve a healthy Georgia population by leveraging funding assistance from the USDA RD to key Administration priorities, such as advancing racial equity place-based growth, and opportunity by ensuring rural residents in the most distressed communities in Georgia have equitable access to RD programs and benefit from RD funded projects.