LISC is one of five organizations leading Power Forward Communities, a new coalition investing in green housing and jobs to support economic opportunity and climate resilience. Today, the EPA awarded the coalition $2 billion to implement a decarbonization strategy that also lifts up under-resourced communities—making housing more affordable, mitigating climate impacts and improving local health.

A new $37.5 million initiative will empower and grow diverse small businesses that provide manufacturing and essential products for healthcare companies. The Abbott-LISC collaboration aims to break down systemic barriers to success, increase diversity, generate jobs and strengthen economies in underinvested communities.

As part of its 20-year partnership with LISC, State Farm has committed a new $4 million grant to help expand employment, revitalize commercial corridors, promote health and enhance community safety in 12 cities over the next two years. In addition, State Farm has set up a $10 million loan pool with LISC to assist small businesses and community nonprofits in Central Illinois and Chicago hit hard by Covid-19.

LISC has tapped the former chief resilience officer for the city of Norfolk as executive director of its new full-service program office in Hampton Roads, Va. Christine Morris will kick off work this month to lead LISC’s local investments in affordable housing, businesses, health and jobs—all designed to expand economic opportunity for residents.