WASHINGTON (WFXR) — In order to help Virginians who are homeless or at risk of homelessness access safe and affordable housing, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine announced Thursday the allocation of $96,982,527 in federal funding to 21 localities and entities across the Commonwealth. 

According to a statement shared by Kaine’s office on Thursday, April 8, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded the funding through the Homeless Assistance and Supportive Services program, which was included in the American Rescue Plan.

“We’re glad to see the American Rescue Plan provide this significant relief to directly address homelessness in the Commonwealth and ensure more Virginians have safe and affordable housing,” the senators stated. “It’s critical that these federal funds continue to support those who’ve been struggling amid COVID-19.”

Officials say the American Rescue Plan allocated $5 billion to the Homeless Assistance and Supportive Services program, the funding for which is distributed through the HOME Investments Partnerships program.

The funding will reportedly go towards individuals who are homeless; at risk of homelessness; fleeing or attempting to flee domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking; at the greatest risk of housing instability; and veterans and their families who meet any of the preceding criteria.

Thursday’s statement says the HOME program will distribute the funding to the following localities and entities:

  • Alexandria: $2,243,216
  • Chesapeake: $2,004,685
  • Danville: $990,667
  • Hampton: $1,954,965
  • Lynchburg: $1,498,471
  • Newport News: $2,795,087
  • Norfolk: $4,517,686
  • Portsmouth: $1,540,476
  • Richmond: $5,840,854
  • Roanoke: $2,449,336
  • Virginia Beach: $3,840,395
  • Arlington County: $2,628,564
  • Chesterfield County: $2,124,036
  • Fairfax County: $7,884,566
  • Henrico County: $3,216,865
  • Prince William County: $3,350,574
  • VA Non Entitlement: $39,724,473
  • CNSRT-Charlottesville: $2,452,270
  • CNSRT-Suffolk: $1,451,291
  • CNSRT-Blacksburg: $2,161,332
  • CNSRT-Winchester: $2,312,718

According to officials, local governments that would not otherwise qualify for funding may form a consortium (CNSRT) with other contiguous local government units in order to directly participate in the HOME program.

The lead entity — the local government serving as the consortium’s representative — will reportedly assume overall responsibility for compliance with the HOME program requirements.