The Salem Housing Authority was awarded a $50,000 grant from Salem Health's Community Partnership Grant program.

The grant supports the Homeless Rental Assistance Program by funding peer supportive services for chronically homeless clients who have been housed or are awaiting housing placement. The Housing Authority partners with ProjectABLE to provide peer supports. Peer supportive services help to engage the clients in pro-social activities, develop positive peer relationships, and develop supportive and trusting relationships with persons who will encourage their transformational journey of recovery from homelessness, substance abuse disorders, mental health issues and chronic health conditions.

Launched in July 2017, HRAP is one of the City of Salem's key strategies to reduce the number of chronically homeless individuals in Salem. With a goal to house 100 of the "hardest to house" homeless individuals in its first year, HRAP is the largest initial year "Housing First" program in Oregon. The program combines rental assistance, intensive case management services and funding to reduce other barriers to client success and self-sufficiency. 

Salem Health's Community Partnership Grant Program funds programs that share Salem Health's commitment to improve health and well-being of the community. The hospital's current funding priorities include obesity, substance abuse and addictions and early childhood health.

Andy Wilch, SHA's Housing Administrator, said, "Funding from Salem Health's Community Partnership Grant Program to support peer supportive services will help our Homeless Rental Assistance Program clients through their short-term challenges and to achieve long-term success." 

News release from City of Salem