Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), the first Delaware Senator in more than four decades to serve on the critical Appropriations Committee, joined his colleagues on the committee to approve annual appropriations bill Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies. This appropriations bill supports numerous programs that Delaware relies on to ensure that housing is affordable, safe, and reliable.

While President Trump’s budget request attempted to zero out funds for vital programs like HOME, CDGB, etc. Sen. Coons worked to protect these programs from funding cuts.

“From my years serving in local government as County Executive and Council President, I saw the positive effects of these vital housing programs that helped families get their first house, to stay in their house, to build and raise a family – these programs are critical to the fabric of our community, and it was my honor to fight for them,” said Sen. Coons. 

For example, last year in New Castle County alone, over 2,800 households were served through CDBG, ESG and HOME projects and 66% of persons served earned less than 50% of average median income. The CDBG funded home repair program, assisted 40 senior headed households, and assisted on critical emergency repairs which allow homeowners to remain in their homes. This includes the replacement of 8 HVAC systems, 14 Roofs and 5 septic, sewer or water lines.

“Habitat for Humanity in Delaware is grateful for the tireless efforts and leadership that Senator Coons has provided for the HUD programs that impact our ability to provide homeownership opportunities, said Kevin L. Smith, CEO of Habitat for Humanity of New Castle County. “Sen. Coons has been on the front lines for the SHOP, HOME and CDBG programs.  These programs help us produce a dozen new homes annually, and renovate a dozen more existing owner occupied homes, and leverage hundreds of thousands of other dollars from private sources.”

HOME Investment Partnership
Senator Coons fought for $950 million in HOME Investment Partnership funding. The HOME program provides funds for a variety of housing activities including tenant-based rental assistance; housing rehabilitation; assistance to homebuyers; and new construction of housing. HOME funding may also be used for site acquisition, site improvements, demolition and relocation.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program
Senator Coons fought for $3 billion in CDGB program funding. This flexible program, used by 1,209 local governments and states provides communities with resources to address a wide range of unique community development needs. Beginning in 1974, the CDBG program is one of the longest continuously run programs at HUD.

Self-Help Ownership Opportunity Program (SHOP)
Senator Coons fought for $10 million in funding for the SHOP program. SHOP awards grant funds to eligible national and regional non-profit organizations to purchase home sites and develop or improve the infrastructure needed to set the stage for sweat equity and volunteer-based homeownership programs for low-income persons and families.