Following similar roundtable discussions held in Newton, Mayor Setti Warren brought together a number of community leaders and residents yesterday to talk about the importance of Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) and how they affect programs here in the Garden City. 

Over the years, CDBG funds have helped out community programs such as the John M. Barry Boys & Girls Club of Newton, renovations at Pellegrini Park and the construction of the Newton Senior Center. 

Yesterday's meeting was held at Lincoln-Eliot Elementary School, which receives CDBG funds for its after school program.

“CDBG funds have been one of the most successful federal programs since its inception 38 years ago,” Warren said in a press release issued yesterday. “We are at a critical point in the future of this program, and are asking for a funding level of $3.3 billion. This program has an enormous impact on people’s lives, providing critical services for working families, seniors, people with disabilities, job creation and affordable housing.”

Warren has held similar CDBG meetings in the past, including one held earlier this year with Dept. of Housing and Urban Development Assistant Secretary Mercedes Marquez. Another CDBG rally was held last year with Congressman Barney Frank.

“Community Development Block Grant funding has had a tremendous impact on me personally,” said Newton resident Bonnis Mojica in the statement issued yesterday. “The Boys and Girls Club has been a great resource for both of my children, and as a single mother I think it is very important that we protect this funding in the future.”

Warren, who chairs the Committee on Community Development and Housing for the U.S. Conference of Mayors, has met multiple times with HUD officials and other politicians to advocate for the CDBG program.

Newton received more than $4 million in community development funding in September 2011, more than $2 million of which came from CDBG funds.

“CDBG funding has been essential in allowing us to provide quality services to hundreds of families in Newton,” said Plowshares Executive Director James in the press release. “I look forward to continuing to work with Mayor Warren to protect this critical funding source.”