Merkley, Wyden Announce Over $18 Million for Low-Income Housing Assistance in Portland Metro Area

Portland, OR – Oregon Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced today that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded over $18 million for affordable housing and emergency shelter programs in the Portland Metro area.

“Safe, affordable housing is crucial to the success of families,” Merkley said.  “Many Oregonians are still struggling with a tough economy and housing dollars are stretched thin.  This funding helps families build a foundation for success by supporting a roof over their heads.”

“Times are tough for a lot of Portland families, and this support from HUD will help fill a much-needed gap in the safety net while the economy continues to recover,” said Wyden. “This funding will provide a welcome boost to the housing sector in Oregon and gives new hope to many low income and at risk folks in the state.”  

According to HUD, the Community Development Block Grants program provides annual grants to states and local units of government to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate-income persons.

The Emergency Shelter Grants program provides annual grants to state and private entities to improve the quality and number of emergency 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 states and local governments to fund housing programs that meet local needs and priorities.

The HOPWA program provides housing assistance and related supportive services to local units of government, states and non-profit organizations for projects that benefit low-income persons medically diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and their families.

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