HUD AWARDS $250,000 GRANT TO THE MILWAUKEE HOUSING AUTHORITY TO CREATE A COMMUNITY COMPUTER CENTER

MILWAUKEE - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development today awarded a $250,000 grant to the Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee to create a new Neighborhood Networks computer center at the Cherry Court senior housing development.

"Today computer knowledge is essential," said HUD Assistant Secretary Michael Liu, who delivered the funding at the Townhomes at Carver Park today. "When our public housing communities bring computer technology to neighborhoods it opens countless opportunities for residents in the development and the surrounding community."

Neighborhood Networks centers make it easier for residents to get information regarding jobs, educational opportunities, as well as information on healthcare, nutrition and other social services, while gaining computer skills. This funding is used to construct computer centers; buy computer and information technology hardware; hire staff; and develop programs and systems that will assists the public housing residents with employment, educational activities and life-skills activities.

Public housing authorities (PHAs) that were past recipients of HUD's HOPE VI Revitalization Grants were eligible to apply for this funding. Beginning with FY 2000 HOPE VI Revitalization grants, HUD required that all grantees establish Neighborhood Networks centers as part of their revitalization plan.

HUD is the nation's housing agency committed to increasing homeownership, particularly among minorities; 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 as well as enforces the nation's fair housing laws. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet and espanol.hud.gov.

###