The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) has announced the launch of the Reentry Assistance Pilot Program aimed at helping formerly incarcerated individuals secure housing. The program involves four awards of $100,000 each to assist in obtaining rental housing, paying security deposits, and other reentry activities related to housing.

According to TDHCA executive director Bobby Wilkinson, "TDHCA serves as an essential resource for all individuals and families seeking affordable housing." The Reentry Assistance Pilot Program will provide funding to projects assisting individuals with an annual income at or below 125% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines.

The four awardees of the program 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. The funding for the program is made possible through TDHCA's Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

TDHCA has allocated approximately $1.8 million for CSBG discretionary purposes, with $400,000 specifically earmarked for the Reentry Assistance Pilot Program. The program is designed to enable nonprofits and local government organizations to assist previously incarcerated individuals in securing housing.

"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," Wilkinson added.

The program was authorized by TDHCA's Governing Board in July 2023 and aims to provide much-needed support to individuals reintegrating into society after incarceration. Interested parties are encouraged to sign up for updates on program releases, application procedures, and other related news.