Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
States and localities may want to consider using TANF and/or TANF maintenance-of-effort (MOE) funds to provide short-term aid to families falling behind on rent, mortgage, or utilities payments. Initiatives that address individuals’ poor credit and eviction histories, as well as landlord-tenant eviction mediation services may also reduce the incidence of homelessness. To date at least 34 states provide housing-related benefits as part of their TANF programs to families meeting state-established emergency criteria. To read a full report compiled by Barbara Sard of the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities, go to http://www.cbpp.org/4-3-01TANF.htm

Emergency Shelter Grants Program (ESGP)
ESGP funds can be used for a variety of outreach activities and supportive services. This is a competitive grant which provides funds to nonprofit organizations and units of general government for activities relating to shelter and services for homeless persons and the prevention of homelessness. Funding is awarded annually, with grants from $30,000 to $100,000, contracted September through August.
2005 applications are due March 1, 2005.
Allowable expenditures under ESG include:

• Assistance in obtaining permanent housing;
• Medical and psychological counseling and supervision;
• Nutritional counseling;
• Substance abuse treatment;
• Assistance in obtaining other federal, state, and local aid;
• Child care, transportation, job placement, and job training;
• Short-term subsidies to help defray rent and utility arrearages;
• Security deposits or first month’s rent;
• Programs to provide mediation for landlord/tenant disputes;
• legal services for the representation in eviction proceedings; and
• Payments to prevent foreclosure on a home