Non-profits and public agencies are encouraged to apply for $480,000 worth of grants to assist the city’s low-income population.

The money is available through the Community Development Block Grant program and may be used toward community facilities and housing projects involving acquisition and improvement of real property or economic development projects, for example. The outcome must benefit Federal Way’s low-income residents.

The Federal Way Human Services Commission will determine which projects to fund, based on which best serve the needs of residents as outlined in the city’s “Housing and Human Services Consolidated Plan 2006-2010.

Applications are due by 4 p.m. June 15. Grants will be awarded in September. The city’s Human Services Department offers free technical assistance on the applications. For assistance or more information, contact Kelli O’Donnell at (253) 835-2653 or Kelli.Odonnell@cityoffederalway.com.