Faith-based groups awarded grants

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - A little more than two-dozen faith-based organizations in Indiana have a little more money to work with now. Monday morning, the group gathered inside the Statehouse to receive grants that will help them help families.

Organizations and programs from South Bend to Scottsburg now have awards averaging $9,000.

The Indiana Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives gave the money out to help low-income families.

Christamore House, on Indianapolis' west side plans to use the money for its summer camp program.

"With our summer camp program they go on field trips, various arts and crafts activities, a lot of activities to get them thinking outside the box," said Cory Lisenbee of the Christamore House.

The Boys & Girls Club of Indianapolis received a grant from the office, too.

"We'll be using the funds to provide low cost and affordable summer care for families while they're at school or at work so that they don't have to worry about the high cost of day care or possibly even leaving their children unattended at home," said Carrie Selby of the Boys & Girls Club of Indianapolis.

At a time when money is tight everywhere, social service organizations need all the help they can get.

The Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives plans a second round of funding.

The deadline for applying for that money is June 15. To find out how to apply click here.