HUD Releases 2008 Supportive Housing Program Grant Awards

For immediate release: March 9, 2009
Contact: Georgiana Devine, 561-355-4778

On February 19, 2009, the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced the release of $1.416 billion in Homeless Grants awarded through HUD’s Continuum of Care programs. The Palm Beach County Continuum of Care was awarded $4,383,393 which represents an increase of 2 percent over last year.

These funds provide permanent and transitional housing to homeless persons. These grants also fund important services such as job placement assistance, life skills training, mental health and substance abuse counseling, transportation services and child care assistance.

The following are some highlights of the 2008 Palm Beach Continuum of Care Supportive Housing Program Grants:

• The 2008 grants represent a 2 percent increase over last year’s funding.
• The funds support 564 beds through transitional housing or permanent supportive housing.
• Of the 564 beds, 70 percent are permanent housing beds and 30 percent are transitional housing beds.
• Of the 564 beds, 58 beds are new.
•  Of the 564 beds, 65 percent are designated for homeless families, and  35 percent are designated for homeless individuals.

For more information, visit the HUD Homes and Communities Web site, www.hud.gov/offices/cpd/homeless/budget/2008/index.cfm.