Congressman says funding will allow Western New York's People Inc. to Develop Housing for Elderly

            Today, Congressman Thomas M. Reynolds (R-Clarence) and Roy Bernardi, Deputy Secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), delivered $5,915,800 to People Inc., a Williamsville-based health and human services agency.  The federal funding, secured through HUD's Section 202 program, will allow People Inc. to develop and operate affordable housing for low-income seniors in Lockport.

            "Providing quality and affordable living opportunities for our elderly is a top concern in our region, and this project will ultimately give more low-income seniors the chance to live comfortably here in Lockport," Reynolds said.  "Yet again, Deputy Secretary Bernardi, HUD, and People, Inc. have delivered for Western New York.  I want to thank Deputy Secretary Bernardi and HUD for their continued commitment to increasing access to affordable housing in our communities.  I also want to thank People, Inc., a tremendous Western New York organization that works tirelessly to help our local residents and families who are most in need.  This funding will make a real difference in the lives of low-income Niagara County seniors and their families by giving them the security and dignity that comes with a home."

            Deputy Secretary Bernardi said, "The funding we announce today will offer affordable homes and needed services to our senior citizens.  This money will enable very low-income seniors to live independently in an environment that provides them help with cleaning, cooking, and transportation."

            The funding will be used to construct 49 one-bedroom units of supportive housing for very-low income seniors and a unit for the resident manager.  The site is located near public transportation so residents will have easy access to shopping and medical facilities.  A portion of the grant will also help residents pay rent for three years.  An on-site service coordinator will also be provided to help residents access and understand area services.

            Since 1971, People Inc. has been a major force throughout Western New York, improving the quality of life for people with special needs, their families and seniors.  The organization, a not-for-profit agency located in Williamsville, provides programs and services to more than 10,000 people in need, helping them lead healthier and more independent lives.

            HUD's Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly program provides competitive grants to non-profit organizations nationwide in order to increase affordable housing options for low-income seniors.  Under the program, grant funds are awarded to nonprofit organizations to build, acquire or rehabilitate rental housing with supportive services for the elderly.

          "The more doors we can open for Western New York seniors and their families, the stronger our communities will be," Reynolds said.  "I thank HUD and People Inc. for their work in opening those doors to affordable housing, so our seniors can enjoy the later years of their lives in comfort and in their very own place to call home."