The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded over $24 million to aid in the fight against housing discrimination.
The funds went to 57 organizations across the country through the Fair Housing Initiatives Program and were directed to second- and third-year multi-year grantees of the Private Enforcement Initiative. The new funds will continue to support these organizations’ ongoing fair housing enforcement endeavors.
“Unfortunately, far too many families face bias when it comes to renting and buying homes,” HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge said in a release. “HUD is pleased to provide our state and local partners with resources like the Fair Housing Initiatives Program that give organizations the funding they need to combat housing discrimination and help build fair and inclusive communities.”
These funds support investigations, implementing testing methodologies, filing complaints with the appropriate agencies, and educational and outreach initiatives. The grantees aim to educate the general public, housing providers, and local government bodies about the specifics of the Fair Housing Act and what fair housing aid is available.
“The programs and services provided by the Fair Housing Initiatives Program are essential to HUD’s mission and fulfill a vital role in enforcing the Fair Housing Act,” Demetria McCain, HUD Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity, said. “The funds provided today demonstrate HUD’s commitment to opposing discriminatory practices and ensure that our fair housing partners have the financial resources they need to continue educating the public.”
Grantees are located in 28 states and the District of Columbia, and include legal aid groups, rural legal assistance organizations, and fair housing foundations and councils.
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