(AUSTIN) — The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs today announced four awards of $100,000 to be used to help formerly incarcerated individuals obtain rental housing, pay security deposits and other reentry activities related to housing. The Reentry Assistance Pilot Program will provide funding to new or existing projects assisting individuals with an annual income at or below 125% of Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. 

The four awardees are Legacy Community Development Corporation in Port Arthur, Community Services of Northeast Texas in Linden, Concho Valley Community Action Agency in San Angelo, and the City of Fort Worth. Funding is made possible through TDHCA’s Community Services Block Grant (CSBG), provided annually by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

“TDHCA serves as an essential resource for all individuals and families seeking affordable housing,” said Bobby Wilkinson, TDHCA executive director. “We look forward to working with our local partners in bringing the Reentry Assistance Pilot Program to fruition and helping individuals overcome the challenges to finding and securing a place to call home.”

TDHCA allocated a set-aside of approximately $1.8 million for CSBG discretionary purposes of which $400,000 is allocated for the Reentry Assistance Pilot Program. The program is designed to allow nonprofits and local government organizations to assist previously incarcerated individuals secure housing. TDHCA’s Governing Board authorized the launch of the program in July 2023.