The Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency (MDHA), in partnership with the Office of Mayor John Cooper, has awarded $7.8 million in Emergency Solutions Grant Coronavirus (ESG-CV) funding to 13 local nonprofit and social services agencies to provide rapid re-housing for approximately 400 individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The funding is being provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), as authorized by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), which is designed to help those who have been impacted by COVID-19.
“Nashville has shown great resilience and compassion as we work together during this unprecedented time,” said Mayor Cooper. “I’m grateful to the Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency and our community partners for being part of Nashville’s efforts to support our neighbors.”
Rapid re-housing provides permanent housing and supportive services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The decision to use the second round of funding for rapid re-housing came after consultation and collaboration among staff from MDHA, the Mayor’s Office, HUD and the Continuum of Care stakeholders.
“In a year that has been particularly difficult and unpredictable, it is of the utmost importance that we provide as many Nashvillians impacted by COVID-19 as possible with the security found in stable housing,” said Interim MDHA Executive Director Saul Solomon. “I am thankful for all involved who have worked diligently to distribute these funds in a way that will best serve our neighbors in need.”
The 13 local agencies awarded funding intend to rehouse the more than 400 individuals and families as quickly as possible. Already, approximately 85 individuals and families are on their way to permanent housing and are expected to be housed by January 2021. The ESG-CV funds will be utilized over the next two years to provide rental assistance and supportive services.
“ESG funds for rapid re-housing has shown how quickly our nonprofit providers collaborate once we have funding in place,” said Homeless Planning Council Chair and Open Table Nashville Executive Director Paula Foster. “Now we must work on local funding sources to ensure that once these funds expire in two years, we can continue the work at the same level.”
The nonprofit and social services agencies receiving ESG-CV funding include:
- Catholic Charities
- Colby’s Army
- Community Care Fellowship
- Metro Homeless Impact Division
- Nashville Cares
- Nashville District Management Corporation
- Nashville Safe Haven Family Shelter
- Oasis Center Inc.
- Park Center
- Step Up on Second Inc.
- The Contributor Inc.
- The Nashville Downtown Partnership
- The Salvation Army
Anyone who has lost their apartment or home due to COVID-19 may call United Way’s 211 helpline to inquire about assistance.
Any landlords with available affordable units should contact Deon Trotter at <deon.trotter@nashville.gov> or call the Homeless Impact Division’s landlord line at 615-800-0195.
These funds are administered by HUD and operated by MDHA on behalf of the city of Nashville.
