Last week, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that the federal government sent almost $86 million to Florida to help with homelessness and housing issues.
The $85.8 million comes from the CARES Act, the $2.2 trillion federal stimulus package that the White House and Congress agreed to at the end of March. Under the CARES Act, almost $3 billion was sent to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for Emergency Solutions grants. HUD will send those grants to the state Department of Children and Families (DCF) to distribute to “the 27 Continuums of Care (CoCs) and other agencies, organizations, and stakeholders serving the homeless population.”
“The funds, which are being released in two separate disbursements ($20 million and $65 million), will be used to provide rental assistance, support emergency shelters, and conduct street outreach programs to connect unsheltered individuals experiencing homelessness with local housing and other essential services,” the governor’s office noted.
DeSantis weighed in on the funds on Thursday.
“As Governor, I am committed to ensuring Floridians, no matter their circumstances, have the resources they need to succeed,” said DeSantis. “This federal funding will ensure those experiencing homelessness have the necessary level of support and can access the wraparound services they need to get back on their feet and begin or continue on their journey to economic stability and independence.”
“I’m grateful for this federal funding and Governor DeSantis’ support, which together, will allow the Continuums of Care to expand the important work they’re doing in communities throughout Florida,” said DCF Sec. Chad Poppell. “I look forward to seeing the impact their efforts will have on individuals and families who are working hard and taking next steps to achieve economic self-sufficiency.”
Reach Kevin Derby at kevin.derby@floridadaily.com.
