Camden is promised extra federal help

Camden is one of the eight places named a Promise Zone by the federal government, a designation that could open the doors to get extra federal grants.

City officials and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced the award Tuesday. More than 120 communities applied for the designation.

Local officials and nonprofits collaborated on a plan to boost the economy, reduce crime, improve schools, improve citizens’ health and increase the supply of safe affordable housing over the next five years as part of the plan.

Camden will get a liaison to help line up federal grants, among other benefits.

Richard Stagliano, the president of the Center for Family Services in Camden, said he’s seen many efforts to boost the city come and go but believes this will stick.