Federal funds totaling $78 million are now available for New York state communities to use in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, Gov. Kathy Hochul's office announced Wednesday.

The money comes from the Community Development Block Grant, part of the CARES Act passed by Congress earlier this year.

The federal program, administered by New York State Homes and Community Renewal, is now accepting applications to help eligible communities prevent, prepare for, and respond to the coronavirus.

Three recently approved CDBG-CV awards will provide $2.8 million for upgrades at senior centers in the town of Somers in Westchester County, the town of Tonawanda in Erie County and the town of Pittsford in Monroe County. 

"I thank President Biden and our federal partners in helping to secure funds to help combat the COVID-19 pandemic. These funds are designed to assist communities in preventing further spread of COVID-19 and protect our vulnerable neighbors," Hochul said in a statement. "Mayors, communities, and nonprofits tell us your vision, tell us where you believe the vulnerabilities are greatest in your communities, wherever you think you need the extra help. These additional funds will help, and we will get through this together."

The CDBG-CV program funds community projects that address pandemic-related health and safety issues and improve public services.