New Bedford to receive federal funding for programs tackling homelessness

NEW BEDFORD, Mass. (WLNE)- The City of New Bedford has been awarded nearly $2.1 million in funding through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The funding is specifically to address homeless problems throughout the city.

The eight local programs will receive the following funding,

Family Preservation Program (SEMCOA), $411,708

Welcome Home (Steppingstone), $308,815

Portico (Catholic Social Services), $725,211

Step Up (PAACA), $316,917

Prism (Catholic Social Services), $132,155

The Call- Coordinated Entry (Catholic Social Services), $50,000

Homeless Management Information System, $74,524

Planning Grant, $71,397

“The awarding of this grant highlights the important work that we are doing to address homelessness through the Homeless Service Provider Network,” Mayor Jon Mitchell said. “I want to thank the more than 50 network stakeholders, community leaders, and organizations who work with the City on a daily basis, without fanfare, to address the complex issue of homelessness in New Bedford. This funding will enable that work to continue and will strengthen our efforts to stabilize the lives of the homeless in our city.”

Patrick Sullivan, director of the City’s Office of Housing and Community Development, said: “The funding received through these grants is essential for people experiencing homelessness. This very competitive Continuum of Care application requires a high degree of collaboration and coordination with our homeless service providers and partners. Our office works with the Homeless Service Provider Network’s executive committee to ensure that New Bedford puts forth a competitive application, so that New Bedford ‘s most vulnerable populations receive the highest level of services and access to safe, permanent housing.”