HUD AWARDS $2.7 MILLION IN HIV/AIDS HOUSING FUNDING IN MAINE
Funding renews critical lifeline for persons and families at risk for homelessness

Extremely low-income families living with HIV/AIDS in Maine will receive support in maintaining a permanent
affordable home as a result of $2,737,611 in grants announced today by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. In each of the next three years, these grants are expected to help households address the challenges of living with HIV by improving their ability to manage illnesses and consistently engage in appropriate care as a
result of their on-going housing arrangements. The funding announced today is offered through HUD's Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS Program (HOPWA) and will renew HUD's support of two projects in Maine.

"These programs offer a lifeline to families struggling to find affordable and appropriate housing while trying to stay healthy," said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. "A permanent home can often be the best medicine for these families who would otherwise be at extreme risk of homelessness."

Frannie Peabody Center, a community-based organization, in Portland, is awarded a HOPWA permanent supportive housing renewal grant of $1,307,688 to continue providing 100 units of short-term rent, mortgage and utility (STRMU), 44 units of tenant based rental assistance (TBRA), along with housing placement services for low-income individuals living with HIV/AIDS. This project includes collaboration with Shalom House, Maine Medical Center,
Positive Health Care Facility, and the Eastern Maine AIDS Network. A combination of supportive services will be provided through the mainstream community resources to compliment housing support. This support involves access to HIV/AIDS case management, volunteer assistance, life skills education training, and medical care.

The City of Portland, Department of Health & Human Services, Social Services Division, is awarded a HOPWA permanent supportive housing renewal grant of $1,429,923 to continue providing 40 units of tenant based rental assistance (TBRA). The "HAVEN's Outreach to Racial and Ethnic Minorities" is a permanent supportive housing
project for chronically homeless persons and families living with HIV/AIDS, including persons with refuge status who relocated to the Portland area. The project is a partnership with two nonprofits, the Fannie Peabody Center and Shalom House and will provide direct client support and services to persons who have cultural and language issues. Case management support will assist residents in accessing other supportive services and health care resources.

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 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.

HUD is awarding grants to the following local projects: