HUD AWARDS $900,000 IN HIV/AIDS HOUSING GRANTS TO ALABAMA
Funding renews critical lifeline for persons at risk for homelessness

BIRMINGHAM, AL - A local program that offers critically needed housing and support services to extremely
low-income persons living with HIV/AIDS is being awarded $937,228 in a grant announced today by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. This grant will help dozens of persons and their families struggling
to find a stable home as they receive the services they need to manage their illnesses.

The funding announced today is offered through HUD's Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS Program
(HOPWA) and will renew HUD's support of AIDS Alabama, Inc, one of seven projects nationwide awarded $8 million in the states of Alabama (see project description below), Hawaii, Maine, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York and Pennsylvania. Later this year, HUD will award an additional $22.6 million in renewal grants to other existing HIV/AIDS housing programs with expiring grants.

"These programs are on the front lines of saving lives and preventing homelessness," said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. "We know that a stable home is so important to staying healthy for these individuals. By working closely with our local partners, we are offering real hope for those who might otherwise face a life on the streets."

Housing assistance and related services funded by HOPWA are a vital part of the comprehensive system of care for those living with HIV/AIDS. A stable home environment is critical for low-income persons managing complex drug therapies, allowing them to access this support and maintain such care in a consistent and effective manner.

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 121 local and
state jurisdictions, which coordinate AIDS housing efforts with other HUD and community resources. This year, HUD
is making available a record $310 million in HOPWA funds to help communities provide housing for this special needs population. These resources are expected to assist an estimated 58,000 households annually to promote stable housing arrangements and reduced risks of homelessness for persons living with HIV and other challenges.

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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, and enforces the nation's fair housing laws. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet
and espanol.hud.gov.

AIDS Alabama, in Birmingham is awarded a HOPWA permanent supportive housing renewal grant of $937,228 to continue providing operating costs and supportive services for the Jasper House, a 14 unit supportive housing residence. Residents of Jasper house will receive access to healthcare and individual and group counseling, as well
as HIV medication management and education. The program will also provide residents with mental health
counseling, substance abuse treatment, basic living skills training, transportation and access to other mainstream support. Additionally, AIDS Alabama will provide for permanent housing placement for nine households annually that succeed in becoming self sufficient. Approximately 28 individuals and their family members will receive housing assistance over the term of the three year grant period. For information contact: Ms. Kathie Hiers, Executive
Director, P O Box 55703, Birmingham, AL 35255, Phone: (205) 324-9822; Fax: (205) 324-9311.