The Housing and Community Development Department (HCD) recommends Council approval of an Ordinance authorizing a First Amendment to the Agreement between the City of Houston (City) and SEARCH Homeless Services (SEARCH), providing up to $140,273.00 in Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) funds for the continuation of an early childhood development childcare program through SEARCH’s Foshee Family House of Tiny Treasures.
This program will continue to provide comprehensive early childhood education and supportive services to 10 HOPWA-eligible households, including a minimum of 16 children and 35 family members who are or were homeless. Children ages 2 to 5 will receive early childhood education and therapeutic services. Supportive services will be available to family members and will include case management, transportation, and counseling to reduce barriers and increase household financial stability.
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CATEGORY
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AMOUNT
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PERCENT
|
|
Supportive Services
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$130,681.00
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93.16%
|
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Administration
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$9,592.00
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6.84%
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Total
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$140,273.00
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100.00%
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HCD conducted a Notice of Funding Availability for HOPWA services in September 2022, with the option for up to a one-year renewal, at the City’s discretion. SEARCH was one of the agencies selected. The initial Agreement period was from September 1, 2023 to August 31, 2024, and was administratively extended to September 30, 2024. This First Amendment will extend the term and provide funding through August 31, 2025. SEARCH has received funding from the City of Houston since 1996.
As of June 2024, SEARCH has served the 10 HOPWA-eligible households, meeting 100% of their goal, and has utilizing approximately 87% of its total funds. There were no findings during their most recent annual compliance monitoring review.
Fiscal Note:
No Fiscal Note is required on grant items.
The Housing and Affordability Committee Chair was briefed on this item on July 12, 2024.
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Michael Nichols, Director