(AURN News) – The Biden administration announced a sweeping $5.5 billion plan this week aimed at curbing homelessness and making housing more affordable, with a particular focus on boosting economic opportunity in underserved communities. The announcement was made in remarks delivered in Detroit by Vice President Kamala Harris as part of her Economic Opportunity Tour.
The multibillion-dollar Department of Housing and Urban Development initiative represents one of the administration’s most significant efforts yet to confront the interlocking crises of homelessness and skyrocketing housing costs that have exacerbated economic inequality and hamstrung economic mobility for millions of Americans. A part of the plan allocates $1.3 billion to construct and rehabilitate affordable housing units nationwide. An additional $214 million is focused on the Housing Trust Fund. Beyond increasing the housing supply, the HUD funding directs $3.3 billion to Community Development Block Grants. HIV/AIDS housing and support account for $455 million and the Emergency Solutions Grants total $290 million.
The White House framed the announcement as part of a larger strategy to lower housing costs over the long term and expand access to affordable homes and supportive services for high-risk populations. A total of $30 million will be distributed across 23 states and the District of Columbia to fund transitional housing for those recovering from substance abuse disorders, a population that often faces significant housing insecurity.
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