Seminole County Home-ARP Program

The Seminole County is currently accepting grant applications for the Home-ARP Program, a critical initiative designed to mitigate homelessness and enhance housing stability for qualifying populations within the county. This program is a direct outgrowth of the HOME-American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP), which saw Congress allocate $5 billion as part of the broader $1.9 trillion COVID-19 pandemic relief efforts on March 11, 2021. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) administers these funds, with Seminole County having received $3,046,438. This funding was officially approved by the Board of County Commissioners on March 14, 2023, and subsequently by HUD, underscoring its alignment with federal strategies to address housing insecurity exacerbated by the pandemic. The primary target beneficiaries of the Home-ARP Program are individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness, as well as other qualifying populations as defined by HUD. The program's overarching impact goal is to significantly reduce homelessness and increase housing stability across Seminole County. This will be achieved through a multi-faceted approach, including the development of affordable rental housing, provision of supportive services, and capacity building for non-profit organizations. By focusing on these areas, the program aims to create a more resilient and equitable housing landscape for vulnerable residents. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly outlined through its funding allocation. A substantial portion, $2,137,151, is dedicated to the development of affordable rental housing, highlighting a strategic emphasis on increasing the supply of safe and accessible housing units. Additionally, $300,000 is allocated for supportive services, recognizing that stable housing often requires concurrent support for health, employment, and other social needs. Furthermore, $152,321 is earmarked for Non-Profit Capacity Building/Operating Costs, demonstrating an understanding that strong, well-resourced community partners are essential for effective program implementation. Finally, $456,966 is allocated for administration and planning, ensuring efficient oversight and strategic deployment of resources. Expected outcomes include a measurable reduction in the number of individuals experiencing homelessness in Seminole County, an increase in the availability of affordable rental housing units, and improved access to essential supportive services for at-risk populations. The program anticipates strengthening the capacity of local non-profit and for-profit organizations to address community development and housing needs. These outcomes will be achieved through projects implemented either directly by the County or in partnership with qualified non-profit agencies or for-profit organizations, aligning with a theory of change that posits collaborative efforts and strategic investment in housing and support services will lead to enhanced housing stability and a decrease in homelessness.