NH Delegation Applauds More than $3.4 Million in HUD Funding to Combat Youth Homelessness in NH

(Manchester, NH) - Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01) applauded the announcement that New Hampshire will receive $3,412,971 to combat youth homelessness.

Specifically, the funding was awarded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program to two recipients: the New Hampshire Balance of State Continuum of Care, which will receive $2,209,513, and the Manchester Continuum of Care, which will receive $1,203,458. Recipients can use the funding to support rapid rehousing, permanent supportive housing and transitional housing, and to fund innovative programs, such as host homes. The recipients will work with youth advisory boards, child welfare agencies and other community partners to create a comprehensive community plan to end youth homelessness. In addition, they will participate in a program evaluation to inform the federal effort to combat youth homelessness going forward.

"No child in New Hampshire should ever have to experience homelessness. Sadly, it's estimated that approximately 15,000 young people will experience some form of homelessness this year in our state. This housing emergency demands meaningful action," said Senator Shaheen. "These federal funds will support efforts in Manchester and throughout New Hampshire to provide vulnerable young people with the secure, stable and supportive housing they urgently need. I will continue to fight for funding and resources to ensure every Granite Stater has access to quality, affordable housing.

"The COVID-19 Pandemic has exacerbated many inequities in our society and economy, including the glaring problem of youth homelessness. As we grapple with the challenges of recovering from the pandemic, rebuilding our economy, and working to regain a sense of normalcy, this funding will go a long way in helping alleviate the unique challenges faced by a particularly vulnerable population, helping our young people find shelter and a safe harbor. I am grateful for the advocacy of those in New Hampshire and around the country to help make sure we can address this crisis and will continue to be their partner at the federal level," said Senator Hassan.

"Every Granite Stater should have a roof over their head and a place to call home," said Representative Kuster. "These federal funds heading to New Hampshire to combat youth homelessness are critical to addressing the homelessness crisis which has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. These resources will bolster the important work of Manchester Continuum of Care and New Hampshire Balance of State Continuum of Care. I will continue working to build a brighter future for all and ensure our most vulnerable citizens have the resources they need to thrive."

"I'm pleased New Hampshire will receive these funds to build programs that will help end youth homelessness in our communities," said Representative Pappas. "As we continue to deal with the far-reaching impacts of the pandemic, we can't overlook Granite Staters who have experienced housing insecurity as a result, and these funds will help our community partners ensure those most in need have a safe place to live. I promise to continue working in a bipartisan manner to ensure our communities get the housing support they need."

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