BUSH ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES $850,000 TO STIMULATE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING IN BESSEMER
HUD grants targeted to lower income persons and families in need

BIRMINGHAM, AL - The City of Bessemer will receive $850,000 in funding to stimulate its economy, produce
affordable housing and provide downpayment assistance to lower income families, Housing and Urban Development Secretary Alphonso Jackson announced today.

"This Administration is committed to promoting economic development and job growth, increasing the supply of affordable housing, and helping our most vulnerable neighbors," said Jackson. "These funds will serve as a catalyst
for low-income families trying to cross the threshold into homeownership and reinforces our commitment to rebuilding entire communities."

The funding announced today includes:

• $850,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds.

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. The Department also promotes economic and community development as well as enforces the nation's fair housing laws. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet and espanol.hud.gov.

###