HUD RENEWS SUPPORT FOR HIV/ AIDS HOUSING PROGRAMS IN ILLINOIS

Officials with the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced Friday that the agency will be providing $ 4.1 million for housing programs supporting those with HIV/ AIDS in Illinois.

The money, which will be split between the University of Illinois’ College of Medicine and organizations in collaboration with the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, will go toward housing assistance and providing supportive services.

The renewed funding is offered through the department’s Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS Program.

“This new funding in Illinois will ensure an improved quality of life for HUD assisted residents to focus on staying healthy in a stable home environment,” HUD Midwest Regional Administrator Joseph P. Galvan said in a news release.

The Chicago Housing for Health Partnership and the Re- entryHousing for Health Partnership, which are both programs aligned with the AIDS Foundation, will receive over $ 2.8 million to continue providing supportive housing to people with HIV/ AIDS, officials said.

With the additional funding, the housing department anticipates an additional 66 households will receive supportive services.

The University of Illinois will get nearly $ 1.3 million for its tenantbased rental assistance and supportive services to over 50 households.

John Peller, CEO of the AIDS Foundation of Chicago, said the funds will help the nonprofit maintain its services and be an investment that connect people to health services.

“The programs are the tip of the iceberg for people who need housing,” Peller said. “We’re very grateful for the renewal in funds. This is a time of yearwherewe’re very aware of homeless people on the street.”