Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced $12 million in the Virginia Housing Trust Fund Homeless Reduction Grants for 55 projects across the Commonwealth. The funding will advance targeted efforts to reduce homelessness with 2,177 individuals and families.

“In the pursuit of sustainable economic growth and a thriving business landscape, it is imperative that we develop responsive housing solutions,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “This funding not only safeguards our most vulnerable citizens, but also addresses the changing housing needs of all Virginians.”

The Virginia Housing Trust Fund is funded by the Commonwealth, and the grants represent 20% of this fiscal year’s fund investment. The remaining funds support the production of new or rehabilitated housing units through the Affordable and Special Needs Housing Program.

The goal of the Virginia Housing Trust Fund Homeless Reduction Grant Program is to reduce homelessness throughout Virginia. The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) supports Balance of State (BoS) Continuum of Care (CoC) local planning group strategies and homeless service projects that are a part of an effective emergency crisis response system in communities. The Homeless Reduction Grant program must be coordinated with other community-based activities, and grantees use a local centralized or coordinated assessment/entry system, which is the best practice for a housing-focused approach for helping households experiencing homelessness quickly regain stability in permanent housing.