HUD AWARDS $716,221 IN HIV/AIDS HOUSING FUNDING IN NEW HAMPSHIRE
Funding renews critical lifeline for persons and families at risk for homelessness

Extremely low-income families living with HIV/AIDS in New Hampshire will receive support in maintaining a permanent affordable home as a result of a $716,221 grant announced today by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. In each of the next three years, this grant is 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 one project in New Hampshire.

"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."

The State of New Hampshire, Office of Homeless, Housing and Transportation Services, in Marrimack, is awarded a HOPWA permanent supportive housing renewal grant of $716,221 to continue providing 55 households with 41 short-term rent, mortgage and utility (STRMU), 14 households tenant based rental assistance (TBRA) and housing placement services to persons living with HIV/AIDS and their families in the Greater Manchester area. The program involves a collaborative partnership with The Merrimack Valley Assistance Program, AIDS Response Seacoast, and
the Manchester Housing and Redevelopment Authority. A combination of supportive services will be provided through mainstream community resources, including access to HIV/AIDS case management, medical care, employment
referral, substance abuse counseling, and mental health counseling.

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.

HUD is awarding grants to the following local projects:

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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.