HUD Dedicates $24 Million to Public Housing Authorities for Job Enhancement

The U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) has announced that $24 million is being made available to certain qualified Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) to help residents increase their earned income and move toward self-sufficiency. HUD’s Jobs-Plus Pilot Program is designed to support work readiness and job placement efforts as well as connecting public housing residents with local employers.

HUD Secretary Julián Castro announced the available funding during a walking tour of a Central Falls, R.I. neighborhood.

“HUD is always looking for innovative ways to help families secure new opportunities and reach their full potential,” said Secretary Castro. “This funding uses housing as a platform for success by linking public housing residents with the resources they need to access better paying jobs. HUD has a unique role to play in helping folks better their lives. In addition to helping folks secure decent, affordable housing, we are committed to ensuring that their housing serves as a springboard to success.”

With HUD approaching its 50th anniversary next year, Secretary Castro is focused on advancing policies that create opportunities for all Americans by creating jobs. 

The Jobs-Plus Pilot Program capitalizes on a successful demonstration program that combines traditional employment, training and job placement services with a rent incentive and a place-based investment in building “community support for work.” The program model, which requires PHAs to partner with Department of Labor American Jobs Centers promotes initiatives to improve employment and earnings outcomes, a critical element of self-sufficiency for all families.  Targeting an entire development helps residents support each other through the process.