The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has introduced a set of changes to aid communities in Maui and the Island of Hawai’i in their recovery from recent wildfires. The changes involve making it easier for these communities to utilize HUD funding for rebuilding and rehabilitation efforts in the aftermath of the fires. Marion McFadden, a representative from HUD, expressed condolences for the losses suffered and emphasized their commitment to assisting survivors in finding secure housing solutions following the disaster.
The changes impact several programs aimed at various aspects of community recovery, including aiding individuals at risk of homelessness due to the disaster, facilitating housing construction, simplifying assistance for those seeking housing support, and easing local funding requirements for certain projects. Additionally, the alterations allow for an extended period during which individuals can receive temporary aid, encompassing emergency grant payments and rental assistance.
Notably, these adjustments pertain to programs such as Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME), Housing Trust Fund (HTF), Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA), Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), and Continuum of Care (CoC). To expedite the utilization of these funds, local partners working with HUD can now acquire waivers through a streamlined notification process.
The modified regulations and administrative provisions offer increased flexibility, enabling support services related to disaster effects for individuals and families. This includes the ability to cover essential needs such as food, water, and other emergency requirements. Furthermore, the changes permit new housing construction in areas affected by declared disasters, lessen burdens in tenant-based rental assistance applications, and extend assistance periods for those impacted.
The funds allocated for these programs can be directed towards a range of initiatives aimed at post-disaster recovery. These include assistance for those experiencing or at risk of homelessness, support for renters, housing rehabilitation and construction, infrastructure improvements, and aid for small businesses affected by the disaster.
Earlier this year, HUD took steps to enhance its disaster recovery efforts, establishing specialized offices and increasing staff to facilitate more efficient and streamlined recovery processes. This initiative aims to better support communities facing the direct consequences of weather-related disasters. The changes introduced seek to enhance coordination, reduce bureaucracy, and ensure a more rapid distribution of recovery funds to communities by engaging in collaborative and transparent recovery planning at an earlier stage.
