FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 4, 2009

CONTACT: Boston Press, 617-565-8519

BOSTON – Senators John Kerry and Edward Kennedy, together with Congresswoman Niki Tsongas today announced that Haverhill will receive $1,068,920 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for critical housing programs in the city.

The city will receive the funding as part of the Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) program.

"This investment is a lifeline for cities across Massachusetts that have been drowning under busted budgets and the housing crunch. It’ll put people to work while allowing hundreds of low and moderate income families in Haverhill to keep a roof over their heads,” said Senator Kerry.

Senator Kennedy said, "This federal assistance is essential for Haverhill and many other cities and towns across our Commonwealth that face extraordinary budget costs because of the current economic crisis. These grants will enable Haverhill to create and retain important jobs while providing essential shelter and other services for families in need."

“The flexibility that CDBG funding provides will allow the city of Haverhill to take steps to restore its economic health,” said Congresswoman Niki Tsongas.  “The city can use these funds to rehabilitate vacant properties, help families reoccupy foreclosed homes, and provide much needed services to the most vulnerable - providing a safety net to the community while also seeding economic development to help them recover.”

The CDBG program is a critical part of the Federal government’s efforts to help more cities, urban areas, and states meet the needs of low- and moderate-income communities. The CDBG program provides funding for homeownership assistance, housing rehabilitation, public improvements, public services, and economic development projects.