April 28, 2013

Manchin, Rockefeller, Rahall Announce Federal Funding For Employment Assistance

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senators Jay Rockefeller and Joe Manchin, along with Congressman Nick Rahall (all D-WV), today announced more than $248,300 in federal funding for local housing agencies to help families in need obtain employment and become economically independent.

“Today, too many people struggle just to make ends meet and fall short out of no fault of their own,” said Rockefeller. “This funding helps local agencies give those facing some of the hardest times with the tools and important skills they need to find a job and make a living wage. The services provided by these local partners help put people on the path to independence and a better life for their families.”

“As West Virginians, we understand the importance of helping and supporting those in our community who have fallen on hard times,” Manchin said. “We must do everything we can to make sure that our neighbors have the resources they need to get back on their feet, contribute to their communities and provide for their families. That starts with offering them the basic necessity of housing. These funds will provide a roof for those West Virginians who are struggling and will also promote one of our state’s top priorities: neighbors helping neighbors.”

“Encouraging economic independence and self-sufficiency lifts entire communities,” said Rahall. “This funding invests in families who have fallen on tough times, and will help to building stability and strengthen local economies, improving opportunities for growth and development.”

The funding comes from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)’s Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Family Self-sufficiency (FSS) program. This program helps put those currently receiving vouchers on the path to economic independence by helping them obtain employment. The money is distributed to public housing agencies that work with schools, businesses, and other local entities to support programs that give participants skills and experience to help them find employment. In addition to employment assistance, funding can also support child care, transportation, education and job training, and counseling.

Below are the individual award amounts:

• $13,851—Benwood-McMechen Housing Authority, Benwood, WV
• $34,028—Clarksburg-Harrison Regional Housing Authority, Clarksburg, WV
• $30,936—Greenbrier Housing Authority, Lewisburg, WV
• $34,500—Housing Authority of Mingo County, Delbarton, WV
• $45,136—Parkersburg Housing Authority, Parkersburg, WV
• $22,736—Randolph County Housing Authority, Elkins, WV
• $30,186—Housing Authority of the City of Fairmont, Fairmont, WV
• $36,960—Huntington West Virginia Housing Authority, Huntington, WV

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