HUD AWARDS $10.6 MILLION IN GRANTS TO CREATE, IMPROVE COMPUTER CENTERS FOR PUBLIC HOUSING RESIDENTS

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development today awarded $10.6 million in grants to 40 public housing authorities across the U.S. to provide greater access to computers and the Internet for thousands of public housing residents.

"Having access to a computer and the Internet has become an essential part of our lives," said HUD Secretary Steven Preston. "Whether it's researching homework assignments or polishing a resume, this funding will help open doors to families who don't have access to a computer and build the skills needed in today's job market."

Grants will be distributed in the following states:

The funding comes from HUD's Public Housing Neighborhood Network Program, which gives housing authorities across the U.S. the resources to create, expand or update community technology centers. The centers must be located at or near a public housing site. These centers provide access to computers, computer training and the Internet for families who live in public housing; participants in HUD's Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8); and residents of the surrounding community.

These grants help the young and the old alike to become computer savvy. They give parents and children greater access to resources found on the Internet - everything from employment information to homework help. The centers generally provide a range of services to help residents achieve long-term economic self-sufficiency, including classes in computer literacy, financial planning and job training. Housing authorities also use the funding to hire staff to manage center activities or purchase equipment for the center.

Public Housing Neighborhood Networks grants by state and public housing authority

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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 and enforces the nation's fair housing laws. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet and espanol.hud.gov.