Minnesota sends $40M to 24 homelessness prevention agencies

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(The Center Square) – Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is applauding $40 million in taxpayer funding for 24 Family Homeless Prevention Assistance Program administrators across the state.

The funding is part of Minnesota’s broader $1 billion effort to improve housing affordability and increase housing stability.

“Minnesotans are working hard, but too many families are feeling squeezed by the rising cost of everyday life,” Walz said. “One unexpected setback shouldn't mean losing your home.”

The Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program was funded as part of Walz’ budget recommendations in the wake of Operation Metro Surge. It was approved by the legislature earlier this year.

“We proposed this investment to help families stay in their homes, support communities, and give people the chance to get back on their feet,” Walz said. “I'm grateful to our partners for helping get these resources out the door quickly so thousands more Minnesotans can stay housed and keep building their future.”

The governor’s office anticipates the $40 million will provide assistance to approximately 11,000 households. That is just over $3,600 per household.

“By expanding investments through trusted community partners already serving Minnesotans, the state will quickly deliver emergency housing assistance and services to households experiencing homelessness or at imminent risk of losing their housing,” Walz’ office said.

The funding is expected to be distributed to the 24 program administrators within the next couple months, according to Ken Rumbaugh from Minnesota Housing. 

That program provides both direct financial assistance and supportive services. Assistance may include rent deposits, rent payments, utility payments and other housing-related support.

To qualify for the program, households must:

• Have an income at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines.

• Be Minnesota residents, or otherwise be approved by Minnesota Housing.

• Be experiencing a housing crisis.

Providers are responsible for assessing households to determine eligibility and the appropriate level of assistance.

This comes as evictions are on the rise across the state. According to data from Eviction Lab, eviction filings are up 5% this year from past years—coming in at 10,508 year-to-date.