Dane County, City of Madison Secure Federal Funds to Keep Families in Homes

August 12, 2009
Topf Wells, (608) 266-9069 (County Executive) Rachel Strauch-Nelson (608) 266-4611 (Mayor)
County Executive

Madison, Dane County Two of Only 17 Agencies in Entire Country to Receive New Funds

Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk and Madison Mayor Dave Cieslewicz announced today the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded the Dane County Housing Authority (DCHA) and City of Madison Community Development Authority (CDA) combined grants of more than $630,000 to help keep 100 local families together and in their homes. 

Both agencies applied for the federal government’s Family Unification Program funding earlier this year to help the number of families and kids suffering financially and at risk of losing their homes during the current national economic crisis. 

The dollars will be used over the next 12 months to provide housing assistance to 100 area families.    They will go to help families whose children are at either risk of being removed or have been put in out- of-home care because of housing challenges.  The Dane County Housing Authority and Madison’s CDA were two of only 17 agencies from across the entire country awarded these grant dollars.

“This national economic recession has made life more difficult for many but it’s been especially painful for families less well off,” County Executive Kathleen Falk said.  “Securing this federal funding means we’ll be able to keep more moms, dads, and kids together with a roof over their heads.”

“More than ever, we must do everything we can to help our citizens through the challenges of this economic climate,” Mayor Cieslewicz said. “This federal funding will help keep 100 area families together in good housing.”

Working with Dane County Human Services, the Dane County Housing Authority secured $316,962 in federal funds while the City of Madison Community Development Authority obtained $316,338.  Those funds will pay for housing vouchers for the 100 neediest eligible families.  As has been the case with past grants of this nature, it’s expected both agencies will continue to receive the additional funds after the first 12-month period is completed.

All the agencies will work together on determining the best ways to identify, approve, and provide case management for the families receiving the new housing assistance vouchers.  The vouchers will be used to secure housing for families already receiving case management with Dane County Human Services.