The City of Austin's Homeless Strategy Office (HSO) has announced over $2 million in new funding aimed at assisting individuals and families in exiting homelessness. This funding is intended to eliminate barriers that prevent people from securing housing or serve as incentives for local property owners to make housing units available for those at risk or experiencing homelessness. Applications are due by October 3, 2024.
"The two goals of this funding – removing barriers to housing and increasing the number of available housing units – are essential to effectively help individuals and families exit homelessness,” said David Gray, City of Austin’s Homeless Strategy Officer. “Through this opportunity, we are offering the necessary foundation for people to rebuild their lives. Our approach supports the long-term stability that individuals require to achieve their full potential and end their homelessness.”
The new funding opportunity comprises two programs. The Property Engagement and Education program ($600,000) aims to improve relationships with local property owners to increase housing availability for persons experiencing or at-risk of imminent homelessness. The Housing Barrier Reduction program ($1,500,000) seeks to establish a fund that reduces immediate barriers for individuals and households trying to obtain or maintain stable housing. Applicants may apply for one or both programs.
The total amount available through this solicitation is $2,100,000 from the United States American Rescue Plan Act. HSO anticipates that contracts for this funding will begin on December 15, 2024. All funds must be used by December 31, 2026, which is the federal deadline for cities to spend their American Rescue Plan Act funds.
Full eligibility requirements and application details are available through the City’s PartnerGrants database (https://partnergrants.austintexas.gov) or on the City’s website: RFP HSO 2024-003 ARPA Property Engagement and Housing Barrier Reduction.
To learn more about homelessness in Austin, please visit www.austintexas.gov/homelessness
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