Kristine Foye (617) 994-8218 |
For
Release Thursday May 8, 2009 |
HUD AWARDS HIV/AIDS HOUSING GRANT TO PORTLAND AGENCY
Frannie Peabody Center is one of only seven programs nationwide awarded funding that renews critical lifeline for persons at risk for homelessness
The Frannie Peabody Center in Portland was awarded more than $1 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide critically needed housing and support services to extremely low-income persons living with HIV/AIDS. The funding is part of $8 million being awarded nationwide to seven local programs
that will help hundreds of persons and their families struggling to find a stable home as they receive the services
they need to manage their illnesses.
The Frannie Peabody Center will use the $1,053,524 in funding to continue its HAVEN Initiative, which provides permanent supportive housing for persons who suffer mental illness and substance abuse with histories of incarceration. The HAVEN Initiative will provide for tenant-based rental assistance for up to 27 households on an annual basis and 26 households annually will receive short term rental assistance in an effort to prevent homelessness. Additionally, permanent housing placement services and supportive services will be provided to participants in the area. Shalom House will serve as a project sponsor and coordinate tenant base rental assistance program for the city.
"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.
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HUD is the nation's housing agency committed to sustaining homeownership; 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.