JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Senators Heidi Heitkamp and John Hoeven along with Representative Kevin Cramer have announced more than $770,000 to support access to affordable housing for individuals with disabilities.

The funding comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development that will provide access to affordable housing and services to disabled individuals and their families. Five cities received the funding including the Great Plains Housing Authority (GPHA) in Stutsman County.

“HUD approved 22 new Mainstream vouchers and funding for Great Plains Housing Authority,” GPHA Executive Director David Klein stated. “These vouchers will help households who are disabled but not elderly find housing and move into permanent housing. This is a big step as GPHA competed for funding nationwide. GPHA will implement special rules over the coming months. We thank HUD and our partners for this opportunity.”

“North Dakota’s affordable housing crisis is especially challenging for low-income residents with disabilities who often face fewer opportunities for housing they can afford where they are also safe,” Heitkamp said. “With this federal support, more vulnerable North Dakotans will be able to keep a roof over their heads and gain access to services that will help them remain active members of their communities.”

“Ensuring that individuals have access to affordable housing will help make our communities more vibrant,” Hoeven said. “Today’s funding is a partnership between HUD and housing authorities throughout our state and will help individuals with disabilities have access to quality housing.”

Cities that received funding includes:

· Grand Forks Housing Authority – $267,265

· Fargo Housing and Redevelopment Authority – $222,882

· Minot Housing Authority – $149,448

· Great Plains Housing Authority (Stutsman County) – $96,128

· Housing Authority of the City of Williston – $38,104