HUD grants more than $15 million to Nebraska organizations fighting homelessness

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded more than $15 million to Nebraska organizations fighting homelessness Thursday.

Each of Nebraska’s three continuum of care regions in Omaha, Lincoln and the rest of the state received more than $5 million in federal funds to assist individuals experiencing homelessness.

Nebraska Field Office Director Kitty Amaya says this year’s grants are HUD’s largest annual investment nationally and reflect the need for services in smaller cities.

“When we think about homelessness in this country, we tend to think about the urban centers such as Chicago, Los Angeles, or maybe even New York,” Amaya said. “But we all know that homelessness is right here with us in Lincoln.”

Lincoln mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird said some of Lincoln’s money will go toward a city-owned housing project for individuals transitioning out of homelessness.

“We are thrilled that a portion of the homelessness assistance funding announced today that big check will be directed toward the operation of Lincoln's first city owned permanent supportive housing,” Baird said.

According to data from HUD, there are nearly 2,500 individuals experiencing homelessness in Nebraska, reflecting an increase of nearly 10% in the past year.