Press Release

Arcuri Announces Homeless Assistance Grant for Auburn

Washington, DC -- Today, U.S. Representative Michael A. Arcuri (D-Utica) announced a Housing and Urban Development Continuum of Care Homeless Assistance grant totaling $221,882 for Options for Independence, Inc., an independent living center in Auburn that helps individuals with disabilities and their families in Cayuga and Seneca Counties.

“Organizations like Options for Independence work in our community to ensure that everyone has a level playing field of opportunity,” said Arcuri. “Grant and loan programs like these help get working families off the street and on their way to security and independence.  I’m always pleased to see well spent federal dollars come back home to help families in Upstate New York.”

“The award of this money shows a commitment on Washington’s part to work with grass roots local organizations to address what is clearly a significant problem in our community.  This will provide 10 units for a mix of disabled individuals, couples and families over a three year period as we integrate them into self-sufficiency,” said Guy Cosentino, Executive Director of Options for Independence, Inc., which will use the grant money for its self-sufficiency program.

The Continuum of Care Homeless Assistance program grants provide funding for a variety of programs to assist homeless persons, including transitional housing, permanent housing and supporting services.

New York received $126,226,494 in Continuum of Care Homeless Assistance grants in fiscal year 2006.

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