Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded $4.5 million in Community Services Block Grants to 18 community action agencies across Alabama to support programs aimed at reducing poverty and helping low-income residents become economically self-sufficient.

The funding will support a range of locally driven services, including job training and placement, budgeting and financial literacy education and emergency assistance for basic needs such as housing, food and health services, according to a news release. The grants serve residents who meet income eligibility requirements and are tailored to address challenges identified at the community level.

“Many families and individuals experience hardships that leave them struggling to find their footing financially,” Ivey said in the release. “These grants and programs will offer a hand up to people in need and guide them onto a path toward economic stability.”

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants using funds provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

“ADECA is pleased to join Gov. Ivey in support of these programs that give people the chance to take control of their lives and finances,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said.

Locally, the Community Action Agency of South Alabama will receive $294,138 to serve residents across Baldwin, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Marengo, Monroe and Wilcox counties. The agency provides employment assistance and help with essential needs for qualifying households. More information is available at www.caaofsa.org or by calling (251) 626-2646.

Other agencies receiving grants are Community Action Agency of Northwest Alabama Inc., $165,981; Community Action Partnership Huntsville/Madison and Limestone Counties Inc., $300,332; Walker County Community Action Agency Inc., $64,617; Community Action Agency of Talladega, Clay, Randolph, Calhoun and Cleburne Counties Inc., $254,882; Community Action Partnership of Middle Alabama Inc., $254,990; Community Action Agency Inc. of Chambers-Tallapoosa-Coosa, $78,660; Montgomery Community Action Committee and Community Development Corporation Inc., $229,352; Organized Community Action Program Inc., $198,252; Community Action Agency of Northeast Alabama Inc., $961,254; Mobile Community Action Inc., $398,576; Macon-Russell Community Action and Community Development Corporation Inc., $91,223; Pickens County Community Action Committee and Community Development Corporation Inc., $20,883; Southeast Alabama Community Action Partnership Inc., $234,971; Community Action Partnership of North Alabama Inc., $249,292; Community Service Programs of West Alabama Inc., $442,565; Alabama Council on Human Relations Inc., $185,359; and Community Action of Etowah County Inc., $115,977.