The Community Development Department (CDD) provides a variety of social and economic development services for Amherst families, individuals and the community.

The following activities highlight CDD’s functions:

· The Director administers and develops Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) programs. Eligible activities include but are not limited to housing rehabilitation or development, micro-enterprise, infrastructure, public facilities, social services, planning and area revitalization.

· The Community Development Director collaboratively works with the Community Development Committee.

· Provides information regarding childcare and early education, with emphasis to the availability of tuition assistance for low-income families.

· Coordinate emergency assistance to low-income individuals and families using interest from the Alfred Field Charitable Trust Fund. 

· Assess community needs with respect to childcare and human services.

· Work collaboratively with numerous committees and human or social service groups that address critical community programs.

· Develop new programs that respond to community priorities.

The Director also provides staff assistance to the Community development Committee, The Housing Partnership/Fair Housing Committee and the Committee on Homelessness.

The Community Development Committee reviews proposals for funding from human service agencies and makes funding recommendations to the Select Board, Finance Committee, and Town Meeting.