Human Services News

HUD:

Over a thousand persons who are living with HIV/AIDS and who might otherwise be living on the streets will find a stable home and receive the services they need because of $27.5 million in funding awarded today by Housing and Urban Development Secretary Alphonso Jackson.

HUD grants will support 26 programs in 15 states to provide their clients with three years of permanent supportive housing.

Jackson made the announcement during a news conference with Rep. Pete Sessions at a local housing development operated by AIDS Services of Dallas.

Housing assistance and related services funded by HOPWA are a vital part of the comprehensive system of care for those living with HIV/AIDS.

"These grants offer a stable home and critically needed services to persons living with this disease so they can devote themselves to staying healthy," said Jackson.

These resources are expected to assist an estimated 75,000 households annually.

As part of today's awards, HUD is providing nearly $16.5 million to 16 existing projects and nearly $11 million to support 10 new HIV/AIDS housing programs.

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 120 local and state jurisdictions, which coordinate AIDS housing efforts with other HUD and community resources.

HUD is the nation's housing agency committed to increasing homeownership, particularly among minorities; creating affordable housing opportunities for low-income Americans; and supporting the homeless, elderly, people with disabilities and people living with AIDS.