WCHA recipient of more than $700,000 in federal, state grants
Westmoreland County Housing Authority (WCHA) was recently awarded more than $700,000 in federal and state grant awards for three separate projects.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded WCHA $245,000 through its Capital Fund Emergency Safety and Security Program. The grant money is for improvements in its public housing developments that will enhance safety and security for residents.
Specifically, WCHA’s proposal calls for the installation of a system to prevent stove fires at all its public housing sites.
“Every resident deserves to feel safe in their home,” said Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman. “The Capital Fund Emergency Safety and security Program provides critical resources to enhance the protection of residents, safeguard public spaces and respond swiftly when they need help. These resources will help create a safer, more secure environment for everyone.”
WCHA also received a $216,500 from Housing and Urban Development’s Resident Opportunities and Self-Sufficiency (ROSS) program that provides services to residents. These services included, but are not limited to, applying for health care benefits, and navigating open enrollment, bringing in educational speakers and making sure residents have regular appointments with their primary care physician.
“The goal is to help residents stay out of nursing or personal care centers,” said Lynn Wackenhuth, HOPE in Life program director.
HUD representatives visited WCHA Thursday during which they presented checks to Michael L. Washowich, WCHA Executive Director.
Finally, WCHA is the recipient of a $250,000 grant for the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency. Through the agency’s PHARE/Realty Transfer Tax Grant the grant money will be used to restore the 57,898 square foot, six-story Troutman Building located in the Historic District of downtown Greensburg. M & L Associates applied for the grant on behalf of WCHA.
The first three floors of the building serve as offices for the Westmoreland County Area Agency on Aging (AAA) and the top three floors contain 27 affordable one-bedroom rental units for Seniors 62+. All apts. receive rental assistance through Section 8 Program.
“On behalf of all of us at WCHA, I would like to thank the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency (PHFA) for believing in the work that we do!” said Washowich.
https://www.cbsnews.com/pittsburgh/video/u-s-hud-provides-westmoreland-county-with-federal-funding/
