Federal officials announced Thursday an effort that could result in millions of dollars to combat homelessness in Georgia and around the nation.
U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan told reporters that his department is awarding $1.6 billion to more than 6,000 homelessness prevention programs across the nation. The funds are in addition to $1.5 billion from the recently approval federal economic recovery plan that will provide rental and utility assistance, along with helping homeless people find permanent housing.
“We know the HUD grants we announce today will literally save lives,” he said in a conference call with reporters.
Homeless advocates throughout metro Atlanta say they’ve seen more people in recent months — particularly women and children — seeking help.
The National Alliance to End Homelessness released a study last month that found 21 of every 10,000 Georgians were homeless in 2007. In 2005, about 30 of every 10,000 Georgians were homeless, the study reported.
Researchers found there were 6,832 homeless people in the city of Atlanta and DeKalb and Fulton counties in 2005. There were 6,840 homeless people in those jurisdictions in 2007, according to the study.
Atlanta has often been ranked as one of the “meanest” cities to the homeless. Mayor Shirley Franklin created a task force that has resulted in coordinated efforts to reduce homelessness in the city.
Labels: hud, the national alliance to end homelessness
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Brian Vanderhoff @ 3:50 PM
