Washington, DC – July 22, 2009 – (RealEstateRama) — Extremely low-income families living with HIV/AIDS in Vermont will receive support in maintaining a permanent affordable home as a result of a $392,009 grant announced today by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. In each of the next three years, this grant is expected to help households address the challenges of living with HIV by improving their ability to manage illnesses and consistently engage in appropriate care as a result of their on-going housing arrangements.
The funding announced today is offered through HUD’s Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS Program (HOPWA) and will renew HUD’s support of one project in Vermont.
“These programs offer a lifeline to families struggling to find affordable and appropriate housing while trying to stay healthy,” said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. “A permanent home can often be the best medicine for these families who would otherwise be at extreme risk of homelessness.”
The Burlington Housing Authority is awarded a HOPWA permanent supportive housing renewal grant of $392,009 to continue providing 11 units of tenant based rental assistance (TBRA) and supportive housing funding for Vermont’s only residential facility for persons living with HIV/AIDS. The program includes a collaborative partnership with the Burlington Community Land Trust, Vermont CARES (Committee on AIDS Resources) and Education Services. A combination of supportive services provided through mainstream community resources will compliment the housing support through access to HIV/AIDS case management, medical care, substance abuse counseling, and employment referral.
Housing assistance and related services funded by HOPWA are a vital part of the comprehensive system of care for those living with HIV/AIDS. A stable home environment is critical for low-income persons managing complex drug therapies, allowing them to access this support and maintain such care in a consistent and effective manner.
Ninety percent of HOPWA funds are distributed by formula to cities and states based on the number of AIDS cases reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. HUD’s formula grants are managed by 121 local and state jurisdictions, which coordinate AIDS housing efforts with other HUD and community resources. This year, HUD is making available a record $310 million in HOPWA funds to help communities provide housing for this special needs population. These resources are expected to assist an estimated 58,000 households annually to promote stable housing arrangements and reduced risks of homelessness for persons living with HIV and other challenges.
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HUD is the nation’s housing agency committed to sustaining homeownership; 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 at www.hud.gov and espanol.hud.gov.
