Community Services Block Grant

CSBG Purpose:

Everybody should have equal opportunity to achieve their highest potential in partnership with their families and communities.

The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) is a federally funded grant program that aims to combat poverty within communities by removing the barriers to self-sufficiency faced by individuals and families.

The state administers the CSBG grant through a network of 20 local agencies that reach all 95 counties. Agencies conduct regular assessments of the needs in their communities and develop action plans for providing programs and services to meet identified needs. As a result, available CSBG services vary by community and range from “safety net” emergency services to job development, adult education, and financial management. In providing these services, it is the goal of CSBG to assist individuals and families in obtaining the resources and skills necessary to achieve and sustain independence to grow beyond the need of services.

In order to obtain CSBG services, clients must demonstrate income eligibility and a need for the service. Household income must be at or below 125% of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Poverty Guidelines to receive CSBG services. Documentation of the client’s income eligibility and need for service must be completed prior to delivery of services.

Find your local CSBG agency to learn more about available services here

For additional information, contact the Tennessee Department of Human Services CSBG Unit by email at CSBG.DHS@tn.gov

Local agency serving your county

CSBG Agency Contact Information

FFY 2018 State CSBG Fact Sheet provided by National Association for State Community Service Programs
FFY 2018 State CSBG Fact Sheet page 2

FFY 2021 State CSBG Fact Sheet provided by National Association for State Community Service Programs