In East Baltimore, a transformative project is underway as a long-standing building prepares to house 40 men recently released from prison. The initiative, led by Marlo Hargrove’s nonprofit, F.A.C.E. (Facing All Challenges Every Day) Organization, aims to support ex-offenders in their reintegration into society. However, Hargrove’s efforts have been hindered by repeated denials for city funding, raising concerns about the allocation of resources in the city.
Despite over 23 years of dedicated work, Hargrove has encountered persistent challenges in securing financial support from the city. “We reached out to MONSE (the Mayor’s Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement). We reached out to Baltimore City Hall, and as we reached out it was like, ‘You’re doing a great job,’ but then you see that big ol’ word… ‘unfortunately,’” Hargrove lamented.
A recent investigation by FOX45 highlighted that numerous large nonprofits receiving city funding are not adhering to state laws. Over the past three years, Baltimore has allocated a substantial $26 million to 23 nonprofits that have now been classified as delinquent by the state. Many of these organizations have failed to meet essential requirements, such as renewing state registrations or submitting necessary financial reports.
In response to the investigation, Mayor Brandon Scott defended the city’s funding strategies. He emphasized the importance of compliance: “Not following their paperwork is important, but the other part for me is when they get these grants from organizations and people… are they meeting the requirements of those grants? That to me is more important.”
For compliant organizations like F.A.C.E., the situation is particularly frustrating. Hargrove’s group is currently $100,000 short of the funds needed to open its new facility, leaving them grappling with questions about why noncompliance is seemingly overlooked while they continue to meet their obligations. “We understand, but we don’t understand. What are we doing right, but what are we doing wrong?” Hargrove stated.
The contrast between F.A.C.E.’s commitment to compliance and the situation of delinquent nonprofits raises critical concerns about the city’s funding priorities. As Baltimore navigates its approach to supporting organizations that assist vulnerable populations, the need for transparency and accountability in funding decisions has never been more apparent.
As the city prepares to move forward, stakeholders and community advocates will be watching closely to determine how funding practices evolve and whether they will truly support those organizations striving to make a positive impact in their communities.
