The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has allocated $40 million to 21 organizations as part of its Eviction Protection Grant Program (EPGP). This initiative is designed to provide legal assistance to tenants facing eviction, aiming to prevent homelessness and promote housing stability.
"This latest round of funding builds on this program’s success in helping over 44,000 households mitigate the negative consequences of eviction," stated HUD Agency Head Adrianne Todman. "Legal experts supported by this funding help provide housing stability across the country."
Each year, millions face eviction through formal or informal processes, often without access to legal support. The EPGP seeks to address this gap by providing services focused on prevention, justice, diversion, and relief for tenants.
Since its inception in 2021 as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on housing security, the program has seen increased demand following the expiration of emergency rental assistance and eviction moratoria. Rising rents and inflation have further exacerbated the situation.
"Given the tremendous demand for these services and programs early grantee successes in reaching tenants most in need of eviction legal assistance services, HUD is excited to grow the reach of the program through these awards," said Solomon Greene, HUD’s Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy Development and Research. "We are proud to partner with grantees across the country who are working tirelessly to expand access to legal assistance and ensure housing stability for those who need it most."
The initial $40 million appropriations funded 21 grantees across 19 states, providing no-cost legal aid aimed at preventing evictions. These grants have enabled recipients to enhance their activities and strengthen partnerships with other service providers.
A recent interim report published by HUD's Office of Policy Development & Research highlighted that many beneficiaries are from demographics identified as being at higher risk for eviction. Over half had children; a significant portion had limited English proficiency or disabilities; some resided in rural areas.
New grants will support various non-profit and governmental entities across 16 states. Among them are Legal Aid Justice Center in Virginia, Legal Services of Greater Miami in Florida, Mission Economic Development Agency in California, among others.
For more details about EPGP and its initiatives, visit HUD's official page dedicated to the program.
