Ithaca launches $900000 initiative to combat homelessness

During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the allocation and management of $1.2 million in HOME American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds designated for the city of Ithaca. The funds, which have been delegated to the Ithaca Redevelopment Agency (IRA), are intended to support local housing initiatives aimed at addressing homelessness.

The meeting highlighted the complexities involved in accessing these funds, particularly due to the dense regulations associated with HUD programs. Officials noted that while the city has the funds available, the challenge lies in navigating the guidelines, especially since Ithaca does not have entitlement funds for certain HUD programs.

A key step in unlocking the funds was the creation of an allocation plan, which was approved by both the city council and HUD. This plan outlines local goals focused on assisting individuals who are literally homeless—those living outdoors or in emergency shelters—and preventing homelessness for those with a history of housing instability.

With limited resources, officials emphasized the importance of setting clear priorities and local preferences to ensure effective distribution of the funds. Currently, the city is in the process of selecting a subrecipient to manage approximately $900,000 of the funding, which will be used to provide supportive services aligned with the established goals of aiding the homeless and preventing future homelessness.