Tuesday, December 29, 2009

Homeless programs in the Wichita area have been designated for “continuation funding” from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The annual Continuum of Care funding is shared among several community agencies, as well as the City of Wichita.

The Wichita Continuum of Care will receive $2,111,306, slightly more than the 2008 allocation. The increase reflects current fair market rent levels for the City-administered Shelter Plus Care program.

Other agencies receiving funds include Sedgwick County COMCARE, Inter-Faith Ministries, The Salvation Army, United Methodist Open Door, United Way of the Plains and the Wichita Children’s Home.

“These tough economic times continue to take their toll on the emotional and financial strengths of our community’s vulnerable populations,” stated Mary K. Vaughn, director of the City’s Housing and Community Services Department. “This continuation funding ensures that we can continue to serve those in need. A decrease would have forced more people into precarious living situations.”

The City of Wichita submits the annual allocation on behalf of community agencies and will administer and oversee the expenditure of funds in support of various community-based programs.