SECTION 150:90-1-6. Fund distribution

(a)   Program funds will be distributed to eligible applicants in accordance with the State Plan. The funds distribution formula expressed in the State Plan will be in accordance with Federal program guidelines and appropriate State program requirements. The program funds shall be awarded to applicants through an application process developed annually by the Department. Each applicant will have an opportunity to submit an application statement in support of their request for financial assistance.

(b)   Eligible entities selected as contractors will be awarded a base amount for program activities in each of the counties comprising their respective service area. The base amount will be contingent upon the state allocation from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The amount of funds remaining after subtraction of the base amount will be allocated to contractors on the basis of (1) population below the poverty level (2) population of elderly persons below the poverty level, and (3) square miles of the service area.

(c)   Eligible entities selected as contractors shall have on file with the Department a work plan of activities.

(1)   The work plan shall describe how the contractor is to provide a range of services and activities to assist low-income persons

(A)   secure and retain meaningful employment

(B)   attain an adequate education

(C)   make better use of available income

(D)   obtain and maintain adequate housing and a suitable living environment

(E)   remove obstacles and solve problems which block the achievement of self-sufficiency

(F)   achieve greater participation in affairs of the community

(G)   make effective use of other programs related to the purpose of the act.

(2)   Further, work activities may include on an emergency basis the provision of nutritious foodstuffs, supplies and services as may be necessary to counteract conditions of starvation and malnutrition among the poor; coordination and linkages between government and social service programs to assure effective delivery of such services; and, to encourage the use of entities in the private sector to provide assistance in addressing the conditions of poverty in their community.

(d)   Funds may become available as a result of project cancellations, deobligation of funds, funds allocated but not utilized, or other circumstances that might arise that may cause funds to remain uncommitted. The Department reserves the right within its discretionary authority to redistribute such funds based on the most efficient and equitable utilization of such funds.

(e)   Funds provided under this part shall be used in accordance with applicable state laws and regulations with regard to procurement of property and services, travel, political activity, and nondiscrimination and other terms specified in the funding agreement.

[Source: Added at 12 Ok Reg 3017, eff 7-27-95; Amended at 24 Ok Reg 1207, eff 5-25-07]