Agencies must apply by Dec. 30. The money can be used for a range of fair housing activities related to discrimination resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is awarding more money to local agencies that fight housing discrimination.

HUD says it’s making an additional $5,757,663 in American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding available to help HUD Fair Housing Initiatives Program (FHIP) agencies combat housing discrimination related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Organizations that qualify can use the money to conduct a range of fair housing enforcement and education and outreach activities, including addressing discriminatory practices in underserved communities. It’s being awarded through FHIP’s Private Enforcement Initiative (PEI) component.

It’s HUD’s second round of ARP funding that targets COVID-19 related discrimination. Last month, it awarded $13.6 million to 51 FHIP agencies working to address the unequal impact COVID-19 has had on communities of color, low-income communities and other vulnerable populations.

“Unlawful treatment associated with COVID-19 robs families of housing security at a time when they need it the most,” says Demetria McCain, HUD’s principal deputy assistant secretary for fair housing and equal opportunity.

In addition to enforcement, education and outreach, the funding can be used to respond to housing inquiries, conduct fair housing testing, provide legal assistance and cover costs associated with providing services related to the pandemic.

Applicants interested in applying can go to www.Grants.gov to obtain a copy of the specific Notice of Funding Opportunity, forms, instructions and other application materials.

Applications must be received by Dec. 30, 2021.

Source: Florida Realtors®