CUOMO ANNOUNCES $3.6 MILLION IN HUD HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FUNDS FOR THE STATE OF HAWAII

WASHINGTON - Housing and Urban Development Secretary Andrew Cuomo today announced $3.6 million in HUD grants for housing and community development programs for the State of Hawaii.

"These funds will go toward community-based solutions to the housing and economic development challenges the State of Hawaii faces," Cuomo said. "We are funding a comprehensive strategy to create jobs and affordable housing, help homeless people become self-sufficient, provide housing assistance to people with AIDS, and increase homeownership."

Under the State of Hawaii's 1998 Consolidated Plan, which was approved by HUD, the state will receive $3 million in HOME Investment Partnership Program funds; $188,000 under the Emergency Shelter Grant funds for homeless assistance; and $477,000 in funding under the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS program.

Among the housing and community development efforts to be funded by the state this year are: rental assistance; homeownership opportunities; homeless facilities and services; and other housing related activities that benefit low and moderate income persons.

The Consolidated Planning process, developed by Cuomo when he served as HUD Assistant Secretary for Community Planning and Development, ensures that local residents have strong input into the creation of comprehensive, community-based housing and economic development plans. The streamlined process gives communities maximum local flexibility, while reducing burdensome regulatory requirements. Local HUD staff are empowered to work closely with communities to customize Consolidated Plans and help them realize their housing and economic development goals.