May 23, 2016

Kilmer Announces Rural Community Grant for Grays Harbor to Help Create More Affordable Housing Options

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (D-WA) announced that Grays Harbor County received a grant to help create more affordable housing options in the area. The Grays Harbor County Public Health and Social Services will utilize the investment to further a plan to provide stable housing for homeless families and individuals. The funding comes from the United States Department of Agriculture’s Rural Community Development Grant program.

With the grant the county will be able to create a new inventory of community housing locations. It will also be used to develop a strategy for acquiring and building new properties to make available new homes while offering critical training for local housing providers as well. 

“In our region we don’t turn our backs on those in need,” said Kilmer. “This key investment will help us continue our work to make sure those struggling with a mental illness or out on the streets have a roof over their heads. I’m honored to be a partner with Grays Harbor County to make sure we can give those in need a boost.”

“This grant will support priorities outlined in the recently adopted 10 year plan to end homelessness in Grays Harbor by providing critical training and capacity Building to local housing providers,” said Cassie Lentz, Housing Resource Coordinator, Grays Harbor County Public Health and Social Services. “The funds will also allow us to develop a housing inventory and related recommendations for the creation of additional affordable housing opportunities. Representative Kilmer and his staff were instrumental in informing us about this grant opportunity and helping to facilitate access to technical assistance and support.  We are thrilled to have the opportunity to invest these resources in our area and look forward to sharing about the increased access to affordable housing and support services that meet the local need.”

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