Date:

December 26, 2002

For More Information Contact:

Diane Gonzolas, Citizen Information Center, 441-7831
Reginald Robinson, HUD, Omaha, 492-3138

Mayor Don Wesely today announced that local agencies serving the homeless have been awarded more than $1.5 million in federal grants.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)awards "Continuum of Care" grants through a competitive process. The grants provide permanent and transitional housing as well as job training, health care, mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment and child care. Lincoln agencies receiving these grants are:

• CenterPointe, Inc. - $443,273 and $187,612 (two grants)
• Lincoln Action Program - $449,539
• Saint Monica's - $140, 456
• CEDARS Youth Services - $130,707
• Catholic Social Services - $93,683

Lincoln will also receive $76,000 in emergency shelter grants, awarded to local governments to support shelters and other services. The grant is administered by the City's Urban Development Department.

"Despite our rebounding local economy, the 'Point in Time' survey conducted last month confirmed that the number of homeless individuals and families is increasing in our community," said Mayor Wesely. "Our local agencies are doing an excellent job of providing services, and these federal grants will allow them to help more people find housing to eventually become self-sufficient."

The "Point in Time Count" was conducted November 7 by those who provide services to the homeless in cooperation with the Lincoln Police Department. The total number of homeless counted was 1,812, including 600 children. Officials say the actual number is probably higher than that identified in the survey because those not receiving services at the time the survey was conducted were not counted.

The local agencies which provide services to those in need are members of the Lincoln Lancaster Homeless Coalition, which works to raise awareness of issues surrounding the homeless. The Coalition's Continuum of Care Planning and Evaluation Committee identifies service gaps, coordinates the "Point in Time Count" and conducts peer review of service providers.

The total in grants awarded to Nebraska agencies is more than $4.3 million. HUD officials say the grants will support more than 3,000 programs nationwide, and about 740,000 Americans will receive services. More details on the HUD grants can be found on the Internet at http://www.hud.gov/news/index.cfm.