DES MOINES, IOWA (June 20, 2024) — To help keep residents safe in their homes, today, the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced that it will award $10 million to 65 Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) in 32 states across the country to make needed capital improvements in public housing developments that serve to enhance safety and security for residents. Public Housing Authorities in Iowa received over $350,000. See the full list of awardees here.
“Every resident deserves to feel safe in their home,” said Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman. “The Capital Fund Emergency Safety and Security Program provides critical resources to enhance the protection of residents, safeguard public spaces, and respond swiftly when they need help. These resources will help create a safer, more secure environment for everyone.”
The funds are awarded through HUD’s Capital Fund Emergency Safety and Security Program, which supports public housing authorities as they address the safety of public housing residents. These grants may be used to install, repair, or replace capital equipment or systems that contribute to a safer living environment for residents, including security systems/surveillance cameras, fencing, lighting systems, emergency alarm systems, window bars, deadbolt locks, doors, and carbon-monoxide detectors.
“There is a critical difference between a house and any home,” said HUD Great Plains Regional Administrator Ulysses Clayborn. “And that difference is advanced by the safety and warmth of one’s home and the security of the neighborhood and community that surrounds them.”
Rich Monocchio, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Office of Public and Indian Housing added: “The Biden-Harris Administration has demonstrated its commitment to the wellbeing of residents and HUD stands in support of PHAs and residents working together to develop proactive safety plans responsive to specifically identified community needs.”
These funds also support the Biden-Harris Administration’s Comprehensive Strategy to Prevent and Respond to Gun Crime and Ensure Public Safety. This strategy is highly preventative by implementing proven measures to reduce violent crime and attacking its root causes. This includes stem interventions and arms used to commit crimes, investing in evidence-based community violence interventions, and support local law enforcement with federal tools and resources.
HUD’s mission is to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all. More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet at www.hud.gov and http://espanol.hud.gov.
