WOOD RIVER – The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) has selected Riverbend Family Ministries in Wood River to receive a grant of nearly $500,000 to expand services in the Metro East, State Senator Rachelle Crowe (D-Glen Carbon) announced Thursday.

“By investing in local organizations, our state solidifies its commitment to improving opportunities and services that many residents depend on,” Crowe said. “Riverbend Family Ministries is such a blessing to the Metro East, and I am thrilled to see the state recognize its community work and fund its expansion.”

To renovate and expand nonprofit business incubation and its Community Services Center, Riverbend Family Ministries has been awarded $493,892 from DCEO’s Rebuild Illinois capital grant program.

Projects requiring a substantial upfront investment in order to begin construction were chosen to receive funds through the Shovel Ready Infrastructure Capital Program.
“With this grant, RFM will provide more space for each organization and further opportunities for training and education while being able to serve and strengthen more individuals, youth and families affected by trauma,” said Tammy Iskarous, Executive Director of Riverbend Family Ministries. “We are so grateful to be selected as a recipient of this grant and want to thank the governor and DCEO for believing in the work that RFM continues to accomplish in Madison County.”

Riverbend Family Ministries provides resources for smaller nonprofit organizations to work together in providing families and individuals the tools they need to be self-sufficient.

Riverbend Family Ministries is one of 11 Shovel Ready grant recipients across the state. In total, the program distributed $11 million in grants for new capital development projects.

All funded projects are supported by Rebuild Illinois – the state’s $45 billion, 5-year capital program. DCEO is leading multiple Rebuild Illinois programs, including investments to expand broadband capacity, fund new public works projects, incentivize business development and other initiatives designed to promote economic growth for all communities across the state.

Visit DCEO’s website for updates on future Rebuild Illinois funding opportunities.