Lee Commissioners accept grant funds to help 20 households experiencing homelessness
The Lee Board of County Commissioners voted Tuesday to accept $418,900 in Emergency Solutions Grant RUSH funding for housing and services for about 20 households experiencing homelessness.
Households who are homeless as a result of Hurricane Ian will be prioritized for housing assistance through this funding. Lee County submits grant applications for State of Florida Department of Children and Families’ Office on Homelessness funding as the “Lead Agency” of the Lee County Continuum of Care.
The Lee County Continuum of Care includes local governments, agencies, advocates, and program users who collectively plan and implement programs to serve persons who are homeless and at risk of homelessness. The Lee County Homeless Coalition and Lee County Human & Veteran Services coordinate this effort.
Lee County received notice in February of the additional funding in Emergency Solution Grants, Rapid Unsheltered Survivor Housing (ESG-RUSH) funding provided through the U.S. Department Housing and Urban Development to Department of Children and Families.
Lee County Human and Veteran Services published a competitive application on Feb. 13. Applications from three non-profit organizations were received and reviewed by a ranking committee. The committee recommended funding for Catholic Charities.
ESG-RUSH will be administered by Human & Veteran Services through a sub-recipient contract with Catholic Charities. Funds must be fully expended by Jan. 17, 2025.
Households who are experiencing homelessness or who have continued unmet needs as a result of Hurricane Ian should contact the Coordinated Entry line at 239-533-7996 (available 24/7).
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Source: Lee County Government