METROPOLITAN DENVER HOMELESS INITIATIVE RECEIVES NEARLY $12 MILLION DOLLARS TO SUPPORT HOMELESS PROGRAMS
Funds up 1.14% over last year

DENVER - Today, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Regional Director John Carson announced $11,887,789 in federal funding for the Metropolitan Denver Homeless Initiative (MDHI) and $80,085 to Family Tree, Inc., to help support their programs to end chronic homelessness. MDHI Executive Director Jean
Tutolo received a check that funds 33 projects and Family Tree's CEO Scott Shields was presented a ceremonial-
sized check for shelters and counseling services.

"This funding is a result of one of the most competitive grant processes in the federal government and serves a vital need by providing housing and services to those in need," said John Carson.

The homeless grants, part of $1.5 billion awarded nationally, are provided under
HUD's Special Needs Assistance Program that supports a full spectrum of shelters
and services for homeless individuals and families - from outreach on the streets to emergency shelter transitional and permanent housing. The funding provides critically needed services including job training, child care, substance abuse treatment and mental health counseling.

HUD's Emergency Shelter funding was also included in the announcement. The
formula-based grant creates, improves and operates emergency shelters for
homeless persons. This year, HUD awarded $401,282 in formula Emergency Shelter
grants to the City and County of Denver; $89,042 to Adams County; and $108,298 to the City of Aurora. These grants support essential services including job training, health care, drug/alcohol treatment, childcare and homelessness prevention activities. Emergency Shelter Grants are designed to move homeless persons from the
street to a warm, temporary shelter with an ultimate goal of permanent housing.

"Ensuring citizens have access to decent, safe, and affordable housing and with the necessary support services is among HUD's top priorities," said Carson.

The funding announcement took place at Family Tree, Inc.,headquartered in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. Family Tree, Inc. will use this funding to reach homeless families and individuals, including chronically homeless individuals with mental illness and other issues that are barriers to self-sufficiency. Family Tree houses up to 16 families at their HUD-funded apartment complex in Arvada.

###