The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has recently granted $138.5 million to over a dozen state housing agencies, including those within Washington and Oregon. This funding is aimed at expanding the availability of housing and supportive services for individuals with disabilities who have low incomes.
Awardees will be tasked with tackling the persistent challenges of housing security and affordability for individuals with disabilities. Their primary focus will be on implementing effective solutions within multifamily developments, whether they are existing, new, or renovated. These initiatives aim to foster community integration by providing accessible and inclusive housing options. Moreover, the awardees will also collaborate with Medicaid and/or health and human-services agencies to ensure that individuals have access to the necessary community-based support and services for the long term.
The Washington State Department of Commerce is set to receive $8 million in funding, which will be used to develop 158 units of housing. Similarly, the Oregon Housing and Community Service will also receive $8 million to support the construction of 153 housing units.
According to a press statement by HUD Northwest Regional Administrator Andrew Lofton, it is not just a policy goal but a moral imperative to ensure that people with disabilities have access to affordable and supportive housing. Lofton emphasized that this funding will enable Oregon and Washington to continue constructing inclusive communities where individuals with disabilities can thrive with dignity and independence.
Funding for this initiative is made possible by HUD’s Section 811 Project Rental Assistance for Persons with Disabilities program. The program aims to support individuals with disabilities in living independently within their community and accessing necessary supportive services.
