Homeless Strategy Office Announces $2.1 Million to Break Down Housing Barriers, Strengthen Partnerships

City of Austin

Applications for funding are due by Oct. 3, 2024.

AUSTIN, Texas - The City of Austin's Homeless Strategy Office (HSO) announced more than $2 million in new funding to help individuals and families exit homelessness. The funding can be used to remove barriers that keep people from securing housing or as incentives for local property owners to make housing units available for people at-risk or experiencing homelessness. Applications are due by October 3, 2024.

"The two goals of this funding - removing barriers to housing and increasing the number of available housing units - are essential to effectively help individuals and families exit homelessness," said David Gray, City of Austin's Homeless Strategy Officer. "Through this opportunity, we are offering the necessary foundation for people to rebuild their lives. Our approach supports the long-term stability that individuals require to achieve their full potential and end their homelessness."

The new funding opportunity consists of two programs. The Property Engagement and Education program ($600,000) aims to improve relationships with local property owners to increase housing availability for persons experiencing homelessness or at-risk of imminent homelessness. The Housing Barrier Reduction program ($1,500,000) aims to launch a fund that reduces immediate barriers for individuals and households trying to obtain or maintain stable housing. Applicants may apply for one or both programs.

The total amount available through this solicitation is $2,100,000 from the United States American Rescue Plan Act. HSO anticipates that contracts for this funding will begin on December 15, 2024. All funds must be used by December 31, 2026, which is the federal deadline for cities to spend their American Rescue Plan Act funds.

Full eligibility requirements and application details are available through the City's PartnerGrants database (https://partnergrants.austintexas.gov) or on the City's website: RFP HSO 2024-003 ARPA Property Engagement and Housing Barrier Reduction.

To learn more about homelessness in Austin, please visit www.austintexas.gov/homelessness

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