FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 4, 2009

CONTACT: Boston Press Office, 617-565-8519

BOSTON – Senators John Kerry and Edward Kennedy, together with Congressmen Jim McGovern and Barney Frank today announced that Fall River will receive a total of $4,396,672 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for critical housing programs in the city.

The federal funding comes as part of three national grant programs. The city will receive $3,020,812 as part of the Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) program, $132,166 as part of the Emergency Shelter Grants (ESG) program, and $1,243,694 as part of the HOME 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 Fall River to keep a roof over their heads,” said Senator Kerry.

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

“The economic downturn has hit Fall River particularly hard,” Rep. McGovern said.  “I’m very pleased that these federal dollars will go toward improving housing, public services and economic development in Fall River.”  

"I am especially pleased that we are seeing these federal funds go to Fall River and New Bedford, which have suffered tough economic times through no fault of their own.  It’s especially important that they get this money at this time," said Congressman Frank.

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.  

The ESG program provides annual grants to state, local and private entities to improve the quality and number of homeless shelters.

The HOME program helps to expand the supply of decent, affordable housing to low- and very low-income families by providing grants to communities to fund housing programs that meet local needs and priorities.