Title
Authorization to Apply for, Accept, and Implement U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Family Self-Sufficiency Service Coordinator Grant (Ordinance S-46581)
Description
Request to authorize the City Manager, or his designee, to apply for, accept, and, if awarded, enter into any agreements as necessary to implement a Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Service Coordinator grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Further request authorization for the City Treasurer to accept, and the City Controller to disburse, all funds for the life of the grant. There is no impact to the General Fund. This grant does not require matching funds.
Report
Summary
The Housing Department is seeking to apply for a FSS Service Coordinator grant from HUD. If awarded, the FSS Service Coordinator grant is anticipated to provide up to $300,000 in funding for calendar year 2021 to fund up to four staff members. This ongoing program helps Public Housing and Section 8 residents transition from dependence on government benefits to an improved level of financial self-sufficiency.
Caseworkers coordinate support services offered by non-profit, governmental, and educational community partners; provide case planning and coordination, supportive counseling and referral and advocacy; assist with 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 buy a home. In the past year, 22 residents graduated from the FSS program.
The Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) is anticipated to be issued in Spring 2020. Due to the timing of the NOFA and quick turnaround for grant submittal, the Housing Department is requesting authority to apply prior to receiving the NOFA.
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 Mario Paniagua and the Housing Department.