Funds Help Bridge Housing Gap in Allen neighborhoods

More than a hundred Allen families received help with home repairs, housing education and household bills last year thanks to federal funding that was administered by the City of Allen.

Advertisement.

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) is financed by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help preserve and expand the supply of decent, safe and affordable housing throughout the United States. Allen received $293,250 to distribute in 2015.

Qualifying Allen residents who live in five target neighborhoods may apply for up to $25,000 to bring their home up to minimum housing standards. Any qualifying resident may request up to $5,000 in urgent repairs, regardless of where they live. Combined with remaining funds from 2014, the City dispersed $355,957 to perform 24 housing projects, including 12 full rehabilitations and nine urgent repairs.

The City also partnered with Allen Community Outreach to distribute $43,500 in one-time rent and utility assistance to families living in Allen. This amount helped 109 families avoid eviction and interruptions in utility services.

To receive these federal funds, cities must follow a five-year plan and submit an annual report card showing how money was spent. This report was approved by Allen city council members on Nov. 22 ahead of the Dec. 28 federal submission deadline.