HUD Rolls Out $40 Million Plan to Curb Evictions and Empower Struggling Renters

• Author: Margaret Hills
• Posted: 2024-07-16

In a bold move to address the ongoing eviction crisis, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently revealed a progressive $40 million program aimed at providing critical legal assistance to low-income renters. 

As a continuation of HUD's Eviction Protection Grant Program (EPGP), initiated in 2021, this funding represents a strategic effort to bolster housing stability and counteract homelessness.

Since its launch, the EPGP has channeled $40 million to 21 grantees across 19 states, offering a lifeline to tenants on the edge of eviction. 

This initiative is especially pivotal for marginalized communities, who are disproportionately impacted by housing instability. 

Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman emphasized the program's role in offering "essential support" that safeguards families and individuals from the threat of homelessness.

To date, the program has successfully served over 35,000 households, majorly assisting Black families and those grappling with extreme poverty.

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This endeavor is in line with HUD’s overarching goal to foster resilient, inclusive communities nationwide.

Solomon Greene, the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy Development and Research at HUD, shed light on the broader implications of evictions. These proceedings not only heighten the risk of homelessness but also strain local government resources. 

With an estimated 7.6 million tenants annually facing the possibility of eviction, the expansion of the EPGP arrives at a critical juncture.

The program is built around four core pillars—Prevention, Justice, Diversion, and Relief—aiming not just to prevent evictions but to also ensure fairness in legal processes and provide supportive resources such as housing counseling to stabilize tenants’ living conditions.

This new infusion of funds welcomes applications from both existing grantees and new prospects, with an expectation to grant around 25 awards valued between $500,000 to $2,500,000 each. 

Interested organizations are urged to apply by the August 20, 2024, deadline. Full application details can be found under the FY24 EPGP section on the HUD Funding Opportunities page or on Grants.gov.

This significant financial dedication by HUD to the EPGP underscores its commitment to ensuring accessible, quality housing and creating inclusive communities for all citizens.

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