California to Build Resilience Centers to Protect Communities From Extreme Heat, Other Climate Impacts

SACRAMENTO — Following last summer’s record 10-day heatwave and temperatures setting global records in recent years, Gov. Gavin Newsom May 26 announced nearly $200 million now available to help communities build resilience centers that can protect people from extreme heat and other climate-driven extreme weather.  

• $98.6 million is now available for the first round of funding for the Community Resilience Centers program managed by the California Strategic Growth Council or SGC.
• $89 million in grants were announced yesterday by the California Department of Food and Agriculture for resilience centers at fairgrounds.

The Community Resilience Centers program is part of $270 million in funding from the state to support the planning and construction of neighborhood ‘community resilience centers’ that provide shelter and build community preparedness as hazards like wildfire smoke and extreme heat are increasingly longer lasting and more frequent in California.

Once constructed, resilience centers will distribute resources and provide shelter during climate events and support social connectedness and community climate solutions through year-round programming. For more information about the Notice of Funding Availability or to apply, visit SGC’s website. 

Separately, the $89 million in grants from the California Department of Food and Agriculture will help support people and communities during disasters with safe-shelter space, kitchen and sanitation facilities, showers and other improvements. To see a list of awardees, visit CDFA’s website