Annapolis (July 24, 2003) - Anne Arundel County Executive Janet S. Owens announced that Anne Arundel County will be receiving a total of $3,717,190 in federal housing and community development funds during the coming fiscal year. The funds, which are awarded annually for the purpose of addressing high-priority needs in Anne Arundel County, will be used to support a variety of programs that revitalize communities and particularly benefit low- and moderate-income families as well as homeless, elderly and other groups with special needs. The creation of affordable housing for first-time homebuyers, the provision of expanded community services, such as summer and after school programs in low-income neighborhoods, continued investment in certain targeted County neighborhoods and the redevelopment of the Wiley H. Bates High School in Annapolis are high priorities for the coming year. In addition, funding will support on-going projects such as the Anne Arundel County Boys and Girls Club programs in the Meade Village, Freetown, and VanBokkelen communities, property acquisition and rehabilitation in Spring Meadows neighborhood, homeownership counseling and financial assistance through the County-wide Mortgage Assistance Program, and continued funding for the Sarah's House homeless shelter. "These funds are crucial to maintaining a good quality of life for all County residents and necessarily focus on those who are most in need." said Ms. Owens. "During these financially difficult times, when our County and the State of Maryland are faced with decreasing revenues and tight budgets, we are very thankful for the help that this grant funding provides - it serves as a crucial resource for our communities." The federal entitlement monies, channeled to the County through the federal Community Development Block Grant, Emergency Shelter Grant, and the HOME Investment Partnerships programs, are combined with State and County funds and used to address needs of neighborhoods and individuals throughout Anne Arundel County. "We are grateful to our congressional representatives - especially Senators Mikulski and Sarbanes - for providing this generous and crucial support," said Ms. Owens. "With the Federal government as a partner, we can continue to move forward in our efforts to support the ideals of safe and secure community and affordable homeownership deserved by each and every one of our citizens." The entitlement funds are administered by Arundel Community Development Services, Inc., the County's non-profit housing and community development agency. Established in 1993, ACDS is responsible for creating and retaining affordable housing and providing community development services to those in need in Anne Arundel County. |
