09.07.17

Senators Murray, Cantwell Applaud Funding for Underserved Communities in Seattle & King County

Grants to fund projects improving housing, living environments, economic opportunities

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) applauded the announcement that the City of Seattle and King County have been awarded $21.9 million in Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grants to bolster underserved communities.

Senators Murray and Cantwell actively supported the HUD grants programs through the appropriations process, recognizing the positive impacts they have on many communities in Washington, particularly when it comes to creating and preserving affordable housing. President Trump’s proposed budget for 2018 would slash these grant programs by $70 million in Washington state alone, a move with clear, devastating consequences for the state’s communities in need.

“At a time when families across Washington state and around the country are struggling with rapidly rising housings costs, it’s critical the federal government step up as a good partner to those who need a hand up,” Sen. Murray said. “I’m proud to fight for these investments in our communities, and I will continue to push back against the Trump Administration’s cruel cuts that would leave so many families behind.”

"From affordable housing to the Meals on Wheels program, these grants will help revitalize and bolster underserved communities across our state and the nation," Cantwell said. "While we celebrate these grants, we must remain vigilant.  President Trump’s budget would gut these vital programs impacting thousands of families in communities throughout our state. I will continue to fight to preserve funding for these critical programs.”

Grants Received

The City of Seattle received $8,848,381 in Community Development Block (CDBG) Grants. King County received $4,865,828. These grants help local governments 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.

King County received $2,713,903 through the HOME Investment Partnerships Program, which helps to expand the supply and quality of affordable housing to low- and very low-income families by funding housing programs that meet local needs and priorities. Seattle received $2,397,161 through the program.

The City of Seattle received $2,032,386 in Housing Opportunities for Persons with Aids (HOPWA) grants, which provide 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.

The City of Seattle received $808,890 in Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) program grants, which provide funding to engage homeless individuals and families living on the street; improve the number, quality and operations of emergency shelters for homeless individuals and families; provide essential services to shelter residents, rapidly re-house homeless individuals and families, and prevent families/individuals from becoming homeless.  King County received $303,495 through the grant program.

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