Valley development and housing programs get funding

WASHINGTON, D.C.
July 31, 2012 9:00pm

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has awarded more than $4.5 Million to Fresno County and the city of Hanford through HUD’s Community Development Block Grant, HOME Grant, and the Emergency Shelter Grants programs.

“As we continue to rebuild from the damage of the housing crisis, these programs help cash-strapped communities meet their long- and short-term housing and economic development needs,” says Rep. Jim Costa, D-Fresno.

“The release of these funds will help keep a roof over our neighbors’ heads and put people back to work revitalizing our neighborhoods,” Mr. Costa says.

Fresno County received almost $3 million through the CDBG program for a wide range of activities intended to create suitable living environments, provide affordable housing and create economic opportunities. Hanford also was awarded $416,835 through the CDBG program for similar efforts. The program primarily benefits low- to moderate-income families in more than 1,200 American cities.

In addition, Fresno County received $839,933 through the HOME program, which provides grants to states and localities to fund a range of activities to build, buy and/or rehabilitate affordable housing for rent or homeownership or provide direct rental assistance to low-income people. State, local, and private entities are eligible for funding through this program.

Fresno County also was awarded over $300,000 through the ESG program for homelessness prevention and re-housing efforts. State, local, and private entities are eligible for funding through this program.