Beginning January 20, 2016, Arlington residents at risk of homelessness can apply for assistance through the City's Homeless Housing and Services Program (HHSP). The HHSP is a state funded initiative that will be used in Arlington to help the homeless and those in imminent danger of becoming homeless. The City utilizes funding provided by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs in furtherance of its City Council adopted 10-Year Plan to End Chronic Homelessness. The Housing Authority of the City of Arlington (AHA) has managed and operated this grant on behalf of the City annually since 2010.

The $188,314 HHSP grant will be primarily utilized to prevent homelessness before it begins. For persons already homeless, the grant will be used to help the homeless re-enter stable rental housing by assisting with payment of the security deposit and first month's rent. The City anticipates that it will serve approximately 100 households from January 2016 - September 2016, or until funding is depleted.

HHSP funds are used in Arlington to target renters who are in imminent danger of becoming homeless that meet program income limits and who, without assistance, would be evicted from their rental unit and become homeless. This resource is for persons that meet the program's eligibility criteria and have the ability to remain stably housed after the receipt of this assistance.

"The HHSP has proven to be a valuable resource to help address homelessness in Arlington and in the seven other large cities in Texas. This valuable but limited resource compliments the outstanding work performed by Mission Arlington, the Arlington Life Shelter, SafeHaven, the Salvation Army and numerous churches and faith-based agencies serving those most vulnerable in Arlington," said Housing Authority Executive Director, David Zappasodi. "Through HHSP the City of Arlington houses the homeless and prevents families from becoming homeless."

Additional information about the HHSP can be found at:

http://www.arlington-tx.gov/pds-housing/housing/rental-assistance/evictionhomeless-prevention/

You can also contact the AHA Homeless Assistance Programs at 817-276-6713.