Edison Housing Authority Awarded 2 HUD Grants for Security & Services

The Edison Housing Authority (EHA) is proud to have recently been awarded a $250,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), with funding made available under HUD’s Emergency Safety and Security Program (ESS). In addition, the Edison Housing Authority was also recently awarded a $66,000 grant from the HUD Family Self-Sufficiency Program (FSS), a voluntary initiative offered to families in HUD-assisted housing. Both grants were received to support, and in recognition of, EHA’s efforts to ensure and enhance the health, safety, and quality of life of local public housing residents. Grant funds are to be used within one year, with benchmark milestones to document their progress.

EHA Executive Director Deborah Hurley explained, “EHA will use the Emergency Safety and Security Program funds to install additional security cameras and upgrade the existing security systems in the Julius Engel Gardens and Robert E. Holmes Gardens housing communities. An investment will also be made to secure the entrances and exits of both administration buildings. The implementation of new state-of-the-art capabilities and equipment will reinforce security areas, help the Edison Police Department combat crime, and protect residents in those communities.”

Hurley continued, “The Family Self-Sufficiency Program funds will go towards developing EHA’s initiatives to help public housing and Section 8 families achieve economic independence and success by providing them with the tools and resources they need. These include education assistance, GED programs, financial literacy guidance to save for a home or vehicle, job training, credit repair, and more. Residents receive crucial information and coaching on how to set goals, develop strategies, and take the steps necessary to accomplish those goals by navigating everyday challenges.”

Both grants will be put to effective use in supporting the Edison Housing Authority’s mission of creating and providing qualified lower-income families the best opportunities for safe and affordable housing in communities where they can thrive and strive for economic self-sufficiency through support and training to improve their lives. By partnering with neighborhood organizations, local and state governments, private sector developers and property owners, and supportive service providers, the EHA contributes to the prosperity of the entire community. The EHA provides a variety of programs, workshops, and seminars for residents, as well as a full calendar of activities throughout the year that bring neighbors together.

For more information about the Edison Housing Authority, visit www.edisonha.org.