The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has awarded the Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance Continuum of Care $7.2 million to continue funding programs aimed at fighting homelessness in Worcester County, the group announced on Wednesday.
The award is part of a larger $2.5-billion funding package from the federal department going out nationwide.
At the alliance, funding will be used to support permanent supportive housing, transitional housing and safe haven programs, as well as provide 402 units for families and individuals experiencing homelessness, which the organization works on in collaboration with seven partner agencies. The money will also be used to help fund three non-housing programs, including the Homeless Management Information System, coordinated assessment and planning, according to the Alliance.
“This funding is critical to make sure that our most vulnerable community members have shelter and the supports they need,” said Leah Bradley, Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance executive director, in a statement.
