Special to the
Opelika Observer
Gov. Kay Ivey has awarded nearly $2.5 million in grants to help homeless Alabamians find immediate housing and to assist others who are in danger of becoming homeless.
The funds from the Emergency Solutions Grant program will support organizations across the state that provide shelter, legal and health services and financial education for families and individuals without a residence. The grant program also can assist these families with moving costs, including rental and utility deposits.
“While many of us gather with family and friends this time of year, it’s important to remember that there are some Alabamians currently struggling to keep a roof over their heads and others who don’t have a home at all,” Governor Ivey said. “I am pleased to award this funding to provide important aid to many families at a critical moment in their lives.”
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs is administering the grants from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Ivey awarded the grants to 12 governments and community agencies that administer the program locally and assess individual needs for those seeking assistance. Individuals or families requesting assistance can contact their local agency directly or may be referred by the program to a local shelter. Case managers screen applicants for program eligibility at the local level.