State housing agency distributes $8.8 million in competitive grants to combat homelessness

(AUSTIN) — Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) has announced the award list for the Emergency Solutions Grants Program (ESG), a competitive grant process in which 63 statewide recipients received funding to help provide individuals with permanent housing quickly after experiencing a housing crisis or homelessness. The TDHCA Governing Board approved the funding at its meeting of November 8, 2018, granting Federal Fiscal Year 2018’s ESG allocation of $8.8 million.

“These funds serve as a vital resource for some of our most vulnerable Texans, opening the door for many to experience more stable and sustainable housing conditions, and giving our local partners a means to provide preventative care for those struggling with homelessness,” explained David Cervantes, TDHCA Acting Director.

Funding for the ESG Program is provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and activities provided through ESG include the rehabilitation or conversion of buildings for use as an emergency shelter, certain costs related to the operation of emergency shelters, street outreach for persons experiencing homelessness, and homelessness prevention and rapid re-housing assistance (such as rent or utility assistance).

In FY17, more than 28,000 individuals were reported as receiving ESG assistance. The list of 2018 grant recipients follows this announcement.