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WASHINGTON – Hundreds of low-income persons living with HIV/AIDS in the Rochester area will get the housing and supportive services they need because of $599,000 in federal funding presented today by Housing and Urban Development Deputy Secretary Roy A. Bernardi. Bernardi made the presentation to Congressman Randy Kuhl and Mayor Robert Duffy during a tour of AIDS Rochester, a housing and service provider in the city. HUD's funding is provided through the Department's Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) program.

Housing assistance and the support services funded by the HOPWA program are a vital part of the comprehensive system of care for those living with HIV/AIDS. A stable home environment is critically important for low-income persons, who have complex drug therapies and face potential side effects from their treatments.

"This funding not only provides support to programs but hope to people," said Bernardi. "By working closely with community and faith-based organizations, Rochester is making a huge difference in the lives of many hundreds of persons who are living with HIV/AIDS."

Duffy said, "My vision for our city is one of hope, unity and commitment. I wholeheartedly concur with Deputy Secretary Bernardi that HOPWA provides that hope, as well as a commitment to the members in our community who are battling HIV/AIDS. I am pleased that we are partnered with AIDS Rochester and Catholic Charities in helping to provide these vital services."

The City of Rochester will use HUD's funding to help hundreds of persons throughout the Finger Lakes region. In the past, Rochester used HOPWA funding to assist AIDS Rochester, a nonprofit organization that provides rental assistance, housing placement, counseling and nutritional services to its clients.

"HOPWA funding helps us to offer stable housing to our clients. Our HOPWA program has been a vital resource to keep families together and sustain them as they struggle to stay healthy and provide for their children," said Paula Silvestrone, Executive Director of AIDS Rochester.

HUD is the nation's housing agency committed to increasing homeownership, particularly among minorities; creating affordable housing opportunities for low-income Americans; and supporting the homeless, elderly, people with disabilities and people living with AIDS. The Department also promotes economic and community development as well as enforces the nation's fair housing laws. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet at www.hud.gov and espanol.hud.gov.

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