U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall (D-WV) announced today that Housing Authorities in Southern West Virginia have been awarded $1,811,568 in funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

The money will help these organizations in Southern West Virginia provide services for homeless people in our area," Rahall said. "HUD continues to help people in Southern West Virginia and across the Nation with the finding and obtaining housing. HUD truly does a great job and is an important part of our government."

The following programs in West Virginia's Third District have been approved for funding:

* Huntington City Mission $423,622
* Prestera Center for Mental Health Services $392,540
* Stop Abusive Family Environments, Inc (SAFE) $407,399
* Huntington West Virginia Housing Authority $587,947

The grant money can be used for a range of assistance to homeless persons, including transitional housing, permanent housing and a variety of supportive services.

Rahall added, "With these additional funds, our local organizations will be able to lend a helping hand and create additional housing options for those in need."