Kristine Foye (617) 994-8218 |
For Release Thursday May 8, 2009 |
HUD AWARDS HIV/AIDS HOUSING GRANT TO CITY OF NASHUA
City one of only seven programs nationwide awarded funding that renews critical lifeline for persons at risk for homelessness
The City of Nashua Division of Public Health and Community Services was awarded a $1.4 million grant 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 City of Nashua will use the funding, awarded under HUD's Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS Program (HOPWA) program, to continue providing tenant based rental assistance and supportive services for up to 31 chronically homeless households annually living with HIV/AIDS within Hillsborough County. Additionally, the project
will offer permanent housing placement services, case management, transportation, mental health and substance abuse counseling, and food vouchers. The city will continue to work in partnership with Harbor Homes Inc., the Southern New Hampshire HIV/AIDS Task Force, and the Greater Nashua Continuum of Care.
"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.