Four R.I. housing organizations to get $13M in grants

WASHINGTON – Four Rhode Island affordable housing organizations will receive more than $13.2 million in federal grants, intended to help senior citizens and people with disabilities find housing in Coventry, Warwick and Westerly, U.S. Sen. Jack Reed’s office announced last week.
“This federal aid is targeted to help vulnerable citizens with limited resources find a safe, decent place to live,” Reed said in an accompanying statement. “It also helps refurbish old properties and creates more affordable housing in Coventry, Warwick and Westerly. This initiative is geared towards providing these individuals with the resources they need to maintain self sufficiency and is a wise investment in our communities.”
The Coventry Housing Association Corporation will receive $4.93 million for a 34-apartment complex for very low-income elderly people. The group also will receive a $480,300 grant for rental subsidies for the first three years.
In Warwick, the Saint Elizabeth Community will receive $5.16 million for a 34-apartment complex for very low-income elderly people and people with disabilities. The group will also receive a $480,300 grant for rental subsidies for three years.
Also in Warwick, the Housing of Hope Community Development Corporation will receive $795,100 for the rehabilitation of a five-unit affordable housing complex and three-year rental subsidy.
In Westerly, Westerly Area Rest Meals Inc. will receive $1.39 million to build eight independent-living apartments for people with disabilities.
“We are grateful to Sen. Reed for securing this vital federal funding for our state,” R.I. Office of Housing and Community Development Chief Noreen Shawcross said. “This money will go a long way towards expanding the supply of affordable housing with supportive services for people in need of assistance.”