FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - February 23, 2007

Contact:
Natashia Elstad, Media Relations Specialist
(512) 477-4488 x2117
natashiae@hacanet.org

AUSTIN- The Housing Authority of the City of Austin (HACA) will be hosting a press conference on Monday, February 26, 2007 to announce the agency’s acceptance of a $350,000 Resident Opportunities and Self-Sufficiency (ROSS) Family and Homeownership grant. The grant is funded and awarded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Richard Lopez, HUD San Antonio field office director, and Diana Armstrong, director of public housing for the San Antonio field office, will be in attendance to present HACA with the official grant announcement.

“Given the competitive nature of the ROSS grant process, HACA is pleased to be awarded funding to continue these vital programs. We are proud to be able to continue the success of HACA's self-sufficiency programs for adults and the dropout prevention programs for children living in public housing,” said HACA President and CEO Jim Hargrove.

The funding for the grant is part of HUD's Resident Opportunities and Self Sufficiency (ROSS) program. These grants are awarded to public housing authorities (PHAs), resident organizations or non-profit organizations to encourage and promote self-sufficiency among residents.

“These grants help families on their way to economic independence," said Cynthia Leon, HUD regional director A. "Whether it’s becoming more computer savvy, taking classes to get a better job or learning what it takes to become a homeowner, this HUD funding is here to help public housing residents achieve their personal and career goals."

ROSS programs serve as a vehicle to create long term, positive changes, which ultimately improve the quality of life of those residing in distressed communities. With this funding, HACA will offer educational opportunities, economic development training, and supportive services that will assist residents to transition from welfare to work and to help children stay in school.