CHICAGO – In continuing his efforts to assist the state’s poor and homeless populations, Gov. Rod R. Blagojevich today announced grants totaling more than $154,000 to support emergency shelters and non-profits that serve those in need of a helping hand throughout the Rock River Valley.  The state’s support comes through the Emergency Shelter Grants Program, one of the Governor’s key initiatives designed to help local communities provide critical assistance to their poor and underserved populations.

“Through hard work, compassion and commitment, these shelters and community service organizations assist our struggling friends and neighbors every day as they fight for a better life, achieve financial stability and even keep their homes.  It is vital that we support these local agencies that are on the frontlines serving the needs of those who have no place to call home or are on the verge of being homeless,” Gov. Blagojevich said.

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) administers the Emergency Shelter Grants Program from funding provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).  The support enables community-based organizations to rehabilitate, renovate and operate shelters, as well as provide essential services for the homeless and prevention assistance to those at risk of homelessness.  Funding is available to units of general local government on behalf of not-for-profit organizations and directly to not-for-profit organizations through a competitive grant applications process.
Organizations in the North Stateline region who will receive funding include: 

Organization	City	Amount
Freeport Area Church	Freeport	$24,760
Cooperative H.O.P.E. of Rochelle	Rochelle	$10,000
Rockford MELD	Rockford	$25,512
American Red Cross	Rockford	$33,100
Carpenter’s Place	Rockford	$28,839
Shelter Care Ministries	Rockford	$31,848

 “The Emergency Shelter Grants Program is an important step in helping to build stronger, more vibrant communities by working together to prevent homelessness and increase the availability of essential services for those that are most in need.  I want to thank Gov. Blagojevich for his continued strong support to help those who need a helping hand,” State Rep. Chuck Jefferson (D-Rockford) said.

"By helping to increase the opportunities available to our homeless, we are giving them a chance to get back on their feet and into the workforce.  I applaud Governor Blagojevich's efforts in providing housing assistance to those in need.  We will continue providing these much needed services and support to our homeless population in Rockford," Rockford Mayor Larry Morrissey said.
Program funds may be used to implement one or more of the following activities:

Rehabilitation, renovation or conversion of buildings for use as emergency shelters;

New or expanded essential services provided by the not-for-profit organization in connection with direct services, such as job training, substance abuse counseling, health and education services;

Homelessness prevention activities, such as short-term subsidies to help cover the cost of rent and utility expenses, security deposits or first month’s rent, or other innovative programs and activities designed to prevent homelessness; and, Operation or maintenance expenses directly related to the emergency shelter.

“Gov. Blagojevich’s investments are making a real difference in people’s lives.  Homeless shelters throughout the Rock River Valley will be able to continue to care for those who are struggling.  By delivering vital resources and necessary support, shelters and community organizations will help their neighbors keep dry and warm until they can find a new home and a steady job,” DCEO Director Jack Lavin said.