FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 4, 2009

CONTACT: Boston Press, 617-565-8159

BOSTON – Senators John Kerry and Edward Kennedy, together with Congressman Richard Neal today announced that Springfield will receive a total of $6,590,121 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for critical housing programs in the city.

The federal funding comes as part of four national grant programs. The city will receive $4,155,048 as part of the Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) program, $182,332 as part of the Emergency Shelter Grants (ESG) program, $1,807,579 as part of the HOME program, and $445,162 as part of the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) 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 Springfield to keep a roof over their heads,” said Senator Kerry.

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

“This much needed and timely federal assistance will help improve the quality of life for the citizens of Springfield. From infrastructure improvements to better housing, this money will help the city continue to provide many of its most basic services,” said Congressman Richard E. Neal.

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.

The HOPWA program provides housing assistance and other services to communities and non-profit organizations for projects that benefit low-income persons medically diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and their families.