Home Safe
The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), signed into law on March 11, 2021, provided resources necessary for recovery from the economic and health effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. ARPA authorized two critical funding streams: HOME-ARP, aimed at reducing homelessness and increasing housing stability; SLFRF, aimed to aid state, territorial, local, and Tribal governments to more broadly support their response and recovery from the COVID-19 public health emergency.
The City of Roanoke, through the HUD Community Resources Division, is leveraging its $2.4 million HOME-ARP award with approximately $4.25 million in SLFRF in order to address the housing crisis exacerbated by the global pandemic. The programs, known as “Home Safe” programs, will help those who are currently experiencing homelessness and housing instability connect to the necessary resources in order to access permanent, safe housing. The City budgeted $5 million for rehabilitation and construction of new units with the remainder of the funds going toward supportive services.
Affordable Housing Rental Development
The City of Roanoke, Virginia is seeking proposals from developers and non-profits to produce 50 safe, affordable rental units within the City of Roanoke with an affordability period of 15 years. All units will be filled with program participants of designated partnering programs: Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare (PSH); Commonwealth of Catholic Charities (PSH); Salem VA (HUD-VASH); Roanoke Redevelopment & Housing Authority (Emergency Housing Vouchers, Housing Choice Vouchers). All units will be available for Roanoke residents transitioning out of homelessness or experiencing significant housing instability.
Home Safe Pre-Application
Application Review & Decision
Pre-applications will undergo initial review by HCRD staff. HCRD staff will determine the eligibility of the proposed activities, conduct an initial risk assessment, and score each pre-application. Pre-applications that are considered complete and eligible for funding will be offered an opportunity to submit a full application. Full applications will be available for eligible projects early April.
Developer Interest Sessions
Developer Interest Sessions will be held virtually on March 6th at 3pm and March 12th at 10:30am. E-mail Katie Kennedy at housing@roanokeva.gov to receive an invitation with the link for the session. Materials from the session will be available March 15th
If you’d like more information, please contact:
Katie Kennedy, Lead Safe Program Manager
540-853-5841
katie.kennedy@roanokeva.gov
While you’re here…
We are currently seeking community feedback for the following projects. Please take a minute and share your ideas!
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