  The BackgroundSince the beginning of the HOPWA program in 1992, the Federal government has made available over $ 2.3 billion in HOPWA funds to support community efforts to create and operate HIV/AIDS housing initiatives. HUD estimates that the FY2004 HOPWA appropriation of $294.75 million will provide housing assistance to about 73,700 households. This number includes family members who reside with the persons living with HIV/AIDS. More than half of those units (approximately 45,000) will involve clients who receive small, short-term payments to prevent homelessness. An additional 25,000 units will involve ongoing rental assistance payments. Approximately 5,000 units in supportive housing facilities, single room occupancy (SRO) dwellings, or community residences also will be developed or operated with HOPWA funds. HOPWA funding provides housing assistance and related supportive services as part of HUD’s Consolidated Planning initiative that works in partnership with communities and neighborhoods in managing Federal funds appropriated to HIV/AIDS programs. HOPWA grantees are encouraged to develop community-wide strategies and form partnerships with area nonprofit organizations.HOPWA funds may be used for a wide range of housing, social services, program planning, and development costs. These include, but are not limited to, the acquisition, rehabilitation, or new construction of housing units; costs for facility operations; rental assistance; and short-term payments to prevent homelessness. HOPWA funds also may be used for health care and mental health services, chemical dependency treatment, nutritional services, case management, assistance with daily living, and other supportive services. Act Against AIDSIssue:
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