Dupage Policy Journal

U.S. Rep. Randy Hultgren (R-IL) said earlier this week that the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded Illinois' state and local governments approximately $48 million in fiscal 2016 grants  to help provide housing assistance for needy individuals and families, with more than $5 million earmarked for Kane and Will Counties.

“Colder months are ahead in Illinois and the 14th District, and I’m pleased at the additional assistance provided to our neighbors most in need this next year,” Hultgren said. “I trust our state and local officials will use this funding efficiently and responsibly to ensure the ‘least of these’ in our communities are served well.”

Within the 14th District, Kane and Will Counties received Community Development Block Grants (CDBG), Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) and HOME awards totaling over $4.1 million. Descriptions of these grants are listed below.

• The Community Development Block Grants program provides annual grants to state and local governments 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 Solutions Grants program provides funding for homeless individuals and families living on the street; improves the number, quality and operations of emergency shelters for homeless individuals and families; provides essential services to shelter residents; rapidly re-houses homeless individuals and families; and prevents families/individuals from becoming homeless.

• The HOME program helps 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.