FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact:  Heather Allebaugh (407) 246-3423
               Carson Chandler (407) 246-2822

Orlando Mayor Dyer and Local Service Agencies Distribute Funds to Help Homeless

ORLANDO, FL - (September 21, 2009) – Today, Mayor Dyer and the Orlando City Council will vote on the approval of three non-profit agencies to provide rent and utility assistance, permanent housing placements costs and case management to Orlando residents through the Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program(HPRP) grant. Nearly $1 million is available through the HPRP to Orlando residents as a result of the American Recovery and Re-Investment Act. Agencies were selected based on their frontline experience in addressing the needs of individuals who are either homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

The City of Orlando HPRP agencies will provide the following services:

• The Coalition for the Homeless of Central Florida -- assist families who have become homeless within the last four months to secure rental housing.
• Jewish Family Services of Greater Orlando -- assist families who are currently in rental housing, but are at risk of becoming homeless and have received written notice from the landlord of impending eviction
• Miracle of Love, Inc. -- assist individuals who are currently in rental housing, but are at risk of becoming homeless and have received written notice from the landlord of impending eviction and individuals who have become homeless within the last four months to secure rental housing

"We must do everything possible to help our families and residents during this national recession,” said Orlando Mayor Dyer. “This grant will provide our residents with much-needed aid and relief during these tough times when families need assistance the most.”

Mayor Dyer announced this federal grant award in February as part of his Strengthen Orlando initiative, the City of Orlando’s uniquely local effort to aid Central Florida’s economy by creating jobs, providing economic stimulus and connecting residents with vital resources and information.

Funds will be available to residents starting October 1, 2009. Today, City of Orlando residents can call selected agencies to make appointments and review eligibility requirements for the program on the City of Orlando, Housing and Community Development website at www.cityoforlando.net/housing.

www.strengthenorlando.com