State housing agency invests $5 million to fight, prevent homelessness in Texas
AUSTIN, TX – October 2, 2008 – (RealEstateRama) — With the goal of transitioning greater numbers of Texans out of homelessness, enhancing the stability and productivity of both the individual and community, the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) has announced a major funding award designed to help homeless people secure permanent housing and strive toward self-sufficiency.
TDHCA has awarded $5 million in grant funds to 77 local nonprofit organizations, cities, and counties to renovate or convert buildings for use as emergency shelters, as well as to provide an array of services essential to homeless individuals.
“Whether victims of domestic violence, chemical dependency or financial ruin, far too many Texans have no permanent place to call home,” said Michael Gerber, TDHCA Executive Director. “Homelessness robs these individuals of the ability to stabilize their lives and diminishes the quality of our society. If we measure the success of our programs by the number of people who no longer need government assistance, this award will go a long way toward achieving the Department’s goals.”
Gerber explained that the grants were awarded through TDHCA’s 2008 Emergency Shelter Grants Program, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. In addition to converting or renovating buildings for use as homeless shelters, eligible activities include assisting homeless persons obtain permanent housing; providing medical and psychological counseling, substance abuse treatment, transportation, and job training; and the development and implementation of homelessness prevention activities.
While figures vary, the Texas Interagency Council for the Homeless estimates that 200,000 Texans – about 1 percent of the state’s population – are homeless at any given point in time.
About The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs
The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs is the state agency responsible for affordable housing, community services, energy assistance, and colonia housing programs. The Department annually administers more than $400 million through for-profit, nonprofit, and local government partnerships to deliver local housing and community-based opportunities and assistance to Texans in need.
Contact:
Gordon Anderson 512.475.4743
Jill McFarren 512.475.2844
