HUD Awards $30 Million to 29 Local HIV-AIDS Housing Programs
From the DSN Newswire (HUD)
More than a thousand extremely low-income persons living with HIV/AIDS will continue to receive permanent housing as a result of $30.2 million in grants announced today by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). During each of the next three years, this HUD funding will help provide permanent supportive housing for 1,232 households so they can manage their illnesses while receiving critically needed support services.
The funding announced today is offered through HUD’s Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS Program (HOPWA) and will renew HUD’s support of 29 local programs in 19 states (see attached chart). For a complete description of each of the grants awarded today, visit HUD’s website.
“These programs are a critical source of support to local programs on the front lines of helping families stay healthy,” said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. “A stable home can make all the difference to the wellbeing of these families, many of whom have been homeless or at extreme risk of homelessness.”
These projects have estimated that about 40% of the households to be assisted will involve persons who have been homeless. The grants announced today also support the Obama Administration’s new strategic plan to prevent and end homelessness, an unprecedented initiative announced last week at the White House.
Housing assistance and related services funded by HOPWA are an essential part of the comprehensive system of care for low-income persons living with HIV/AIDS. A stable home environment is also vital for these households in allowing them to access consistent medical care and maintain their health. Furthermore, secure housing can be a platform for improved quality of life.
Ninety percent of HOPWA funds are distributed by formula to cities and states based on the number of AIDS cases reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. HUD’s formula grants are managed by 123 local and state jurisdictions, which coordinate AIDS housing efforts with other HUD and community resources. Up eight percent from last year, HUD is making available a record $335 million in HOPWA funds this year to help communities provide housing for this special needs population. Overall, these resources assist 58,367 households annually to promote stable housing and reduced risks of homelessness for those living with HIV and other challenges.
