Cahill Supports Funding Award to Benefit Homelessness Prevention

August 28, 2009

Assemblymember Kevin Cahill (D-Ulster/Dutchess) applauded the award of over $1 million from the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance to Rural Ulster Prevention Company (RUPCO) in conjunction with the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-housing Program (HPRH). The initiative will provide much needed assistance to low income families and individuals seeking affordable housing in Ulster County.

“Homelessness deterrence is top priority during a time of economic downturn,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “As the unemployment rate rises, those who struggle with the cost of rudimentary living expenses can no longer maintain a residency without assistance. This initiative restores the dignity of low income and working class families who have been financially impacted by the recession.”

The funds, made available through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, will provide essential support to New York families at risk of homelessness while helping those already without a place to live find stable housing. Services to be provided include short-term or medium-term rental assistance, legal services, case management, locating available housing and financial counseling.

“It is well documented that thwarting an episode of homelessness costs less than sheltering people in need,” said Mr. Cahill. “It is imperative to our social welfare that we diminish the trauma and dislocation that homelessness causes in the lives of too many individuals and families. I commend the pro-active strategy of the OTDA in entrusting RUPCO with this worthy endeavor.”

For more information or questions about the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-housing Program call Mr. Cahill’s Kingston office at (845) 338-9610, visit http://www.otda.state.ny.us or call the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance at 518-473-1090. RUPCO can be reached at 845-331-2140.

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