Title
Authorization to Apply for, Accept and Implement a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Resident Opportunities and Self Sufficiency Family Self Sufficiency Service Coordinator Grant (Ordinance S-50907)
Description
Request to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to submit a grant application to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for up to $723,000 or the maximum award for a renewal of the Resident Opportunities and Self Sufficiency (ROSS) Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) Service Coordinator grant. If awarded, request approval to execute all contracts necessary to accept and disburse grant funds. Further request to authorize the City Treasurer to accept, and the City Controller to disburse, all funds for the life of the grant.
Report
Summary
The Housing Department is seeking to apply for a renewal ROSS FSS Service Coordinator grant from HUD. If awarded, the ROSS FSS Service Coordinator grant is anticipated to provide up to $723,000 or the maximum funding amount allotted through the Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) for calendar years 2025 and 2026, or the maximum number of years the NOFA allows, to fund up to four service coordinator/caseworker positions each year. This ongoing program helps Public Housing and Section 8 residents transition from dependence on government benefits to an improved level of financial self-sufficiency.
Service coordinators/caseworkers coordinate supportive services offered by non-profit, governmental, and educational community partners; provide case planning and coordination, supportive counseling, referral and advocacy; facilitate access to educational resources, vocational training and employment opportunities; and assist with budgeting, homeownership preparation, and transportation. Successful participants engage in training, improve employment outcomes, save money, and may purchase a home. In 2023, 32 residents graduated from the FSS program. To date in 2024, 12 residents have graduated.
The NOFA is anticipated to be issued summer 2024. Due to the timing of the NOFA and quick turnaround for grant submittal, the Housing Department is requesting authority to apply prior to issuance of the NOFA.
Contract Term
If awarded, the Housing Department will execute the appropriate contract agreement(s) with HUD.
Financial Impact
There is no impact to the General Fund. This grant does not require matching funds.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Gina Montes and the Housing Department.