Today, Rep. Henry Cuellar announced that Hidalgo County and the cities of Pharr, McAllen and Mission have the opportunity to receive up to $16,228,839 combined from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).  HUD will award these dollars once the county and respective cities have developed a plan for their use that is approved by the federal agency.

“In recent years, the previous Congress has cut funding for these crucial programs.  The new majority will remain committed to maximizing the federal benefits in local communities.  We must use our resources to help people truly see progress and expansion at the local level,” said Cuellar.

Each year, HUD allocates funds at the local level.  Each community is then responsible for devising a plan to utilize the funds.  Of the total monies available, Hidalgo County has been allotted the potential for an $8,632,714 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).  These funds could be used to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and expanding economic opportunities, particularly for low-income citizens.

Hidalgo County also has the possibility to receive a $2,764,988 HOME grant, designed to create affordable housing for low-income households.  An additional $16,282 is available for an American Dream Downpayment Initiative (ADDI) grant to increase homeownership rates among lower-income and minority households, and to revitalize and stabilize communities.  Finally, $372,645 is available for an Emergency Shelter Grant (ESG) to provide homeless individuals with basic shelter and essential supportive services.

At the city level, the opportunity for CDBG funds exists for Pharr in the amount of $1,141,378 and for Mission in the amount of $854,004.  McAllen has the possibility to develop plans to utilize a $1,827,742 CDBG and a $619,086 HOME grant.

Hidalgo County and each of the three cities now must develop a plan for each of these grants.  Once the plan is approved by HUD, the funds will be released to the city.  Congressman Cuellar encourages the local entities to promptly take the steps necessary to secure these funds.

“Taking advantage of the opportunity to receive federal funding for local problems is a key part of economic growth and development.  It is important that the residents of Hidalgo County benefit from all that the federal government can provide.  In Washington, I will continue to work with my colleagues to ensure that the community is aware of all of the opportunities available and how to go about acquiring them,” said Cuellar.

Congressman Henry Cuellar is a member of the House Homeland Security, Small Business, and Agriculture Committees in the 110th Congress; accessibility to constituents, education, health care, economic development and national security are his priorities. Congressman Cuellar is also a Senior Whip.
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