Emergency Shelter Grants are available for existing South Dakota emergency housing shelters to improve or expand their facilities. The South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA) Board of Commissioners anticipates $342,000 will be available for their Emergency Shelter Grants (ESG) Program in FY’08. Since the ESG Program’s inception 21 years ago, SDHDA has awarded over $5.2 million directly to shelters statewide.
“These funds can be used to renovate or rehabilitate emergency housing shelters. The funds can also be used for maintenance, operating costs, and activities for homeless prevention in our state,” said Executive Director, Mark Lauseng. “This Program has been a valuable resource in assisting emergency housing shelters.”
While it is not possible to get an absolute account of the homeless, a 2007 survey reported that there were over 1,026 homeless people in South Dakota. Most of the homeless were white, single males between the ages 16-35. However, all races, genders and ages are subject to homelessness, including children. The ESG Program is one of several sources designated toward reducing homelessness throughout our state.
More information about the Emergency Shelter Grant Program and an application can be downloaded at www.sdhda.org or you may request a copy via e-mail to lisab (at) sdhda (dot) org, by calling 605.773.3181, or writing to SDHDA at P.O. Box 1237, Pierre, SD 57501-1237. Applications must be received by Tuesday, March 4, 2008, at 5:00 p.m. Central Time. Project selection will be made on or before May 31, 2008.
The South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA) is an independent, quasi-public agency that finances and develops affordable housing opportunities for low and moderate-income residents throughout South Dakota. SDHDA is totally self-supporting and receives no tax money, appropriations or other funding from the State. SDHDA does not discriminate against any person because of race, color, creed, religion, sex, disability, familial status or national origin. SDHDA is a proud partner of the State’s 2010 Initiative to “Brand and Develop South Dakota’s Quality of Life as the Best in America.” For more information, visit www.sdhda.org or www.2010initiative.com.
The South Dakota Housing Development Authority…Building a Better Quality of Life.
