Empowering St. Louis: Funding and Legislative Updates from Rep. Kimberly-Ann Collins
Greetings from Representative Kimberly-Ann Collins
Greetings, St. Louis! The latest newsletter from the Office of the 77th District is packed with updates, opportunities, and resources to support our community. From disaster relief funding to legislative updates, there’s something for everyone. Representative Kimberly-Ann Collins remains steadfast in her commitment to serving the people of St. Louis, ensuring your voices are heard and your needs are met. Let’s dive into the highlights!
Rep. Collins shares updates on her ongoing work for St. Louis residents, emphasizing her commitment to community well-being and legislative priorities. She invites residents to participate in shaping her legislative agenda through an upcoming Legislative Priorities Town Hall. She also reminds constituents of her unwavering support and love for the community.
Key Updates and Opportunities
Public Hearing on Disaster Mitigation
The Missouri Future Caucus will hold its first hearing on disaster mitigation and emergency response on September 30, 2025, at 1520 Market Street, St. Louis. The hearing will explore ways to improve Missouri’s disaster resilience and recovery. Public attendance is encouraged, and written testimony can be submitted by October 29, 2025.
Disaster Relief Funds – Round 2
Three organizations have been awarded funding to assist households affected by the May 16th EF3 tornado:
GIA Community Development Corporation
Bridge of Hope Ministries
One Silverstar
Details on the application process for assistance will be shared in the next newsletter.
Hunger Prevention Grant Fund
Non-profits can apply for funding to provide food assistance to tornado-impacted residents. A total of $450,000 is available, with applications due by October 3, 2025.
Community Mental Health Services Grant
Up to $200,000 is available for non-profits offering mental health support to tornado survivors. Applications are due by October 3, 2025.
Senior Community Revitalization Fund
Organizations serving seniors can apply for up to $30,000 to support projects focused on safety, transportation, and health navigation. Applications are due by October 17, 2025.
1818 Community Engagement Grant
SLU is offering $1,800 grants for community projects in partnership with local non-profits. Applications are due by September 30, 2025.
Start-Up Innovation Grant for Child Care
The Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education is offering grants of up to $625,000 to help start new licensed childcare programs. Applications are due by November 30, 2025.
Waterwise Garden Grant
Schools teaching water conservation through gardening can apply for grants of up to $2,250. Applications are due by October 3, 2025.
Recycling Task Force
St. Louis residents passionate about sustainability can apply to join the new Recycling Task Force. Applications are due by October 10, 2025.
HIV Prevention Subcommittees
The St. Louis Department of Health seeks community co-chairs for its HIV prevention efforts. Applications are due by October 15, 2025.
Legislative Update: Abortion Rights Ballot Language
A Cole County judge ruled that the ballot language for a proposed constitutional amendment to repeal abortion rights protections is “insufficient and unfair.” Secretary of State Denny Hoskins has been directed to draft new language. The amendment, scheduled for the November 2026 ballot, seeks to broadly ban abortion with limited exceptions and restrict reproductive health care.
Summary
This week’s newsletter covers a range of important topics:
Community Engagement Opportunities: Participate in shaping legislative priorities at an upcoming town hall, join the new Recycling Task Force, or apply to co-chair HIV prevention subcommittees.
Funding Announcements: Grants are available for disaster relief, mental health services, senior support, child care programs, and water conservation projects. Deadlines range from late September to November 2025.
Legislative Update: A judge has ordered revisions to the ballot language for a proposed amendment seeking to repeal abortion rights protections, with the issue set for the November 2026 ballot.
Stay informed and take advantage of these opportunities to make a difference in our community!
#StLouisCommunity #TornadoRecovery #FundingOpportunities
