NIFA awarded $8M to expand affordable housing for individuals with disabilities

The Nebraska Investment Finance Authority is excited to announce that it has been awarded $8 million by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development through the Section 811 Project Rental Assistance program. This funding is part of a historic $138.5 million allocation aimed at increasing affordable housing options and supportive services for adults living with disabilities.

“This funding marks a significant step forward in our commitment to providing safe, accessible and affordable housing for Nebraskans with disabilities,” said Shannon Harner, Executive Director of NIFA. “We are proud to be part of this national effort to ensure all individuals have the opportunity to live in quality housing that meets their needs and supports their long-term well-being.”

The $8 million grant will provide rental assistance in 156 housing units for persons with disabilities across Nebraska. These units will be integrated into existing, new or renovated affordable housing developments and will include access to vital supportive services. The funding also promotes collaboration with Medicaid and Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services agencies to facilitate community-based support and services.

“When individuals with disabilities, to include developmental and mental health, have the opportunity to live, work, and enjoy life in their community, it benefits both the individual and the community. This grant will help overcome one of the largest barriers to achieving this goal, the high cost and adequate housing for individuals with disabilities,” said Developmental Disabilities Division Director Tony Green. “I deeply appreciate HUD’s investment to support Nebraska citizens most in need.”

NIFA’s grant is one of 18 awards to state housing agencies nationwide. Together, these grants will provide rental assistance for a total of 3,017 affordable housing units for persons with disabilities throughout the United States.

“HUD is committed to helping Nebraskans with disabilities have affordable housing they can call home. NIFA’s $8 million award will directly serve some of our more vulnerable Nebraskans who would otherwise struggle to find a safe and decent home,” said Kitty Amaya, HUD Nebraska Field Office Director. “NIFA is leading by example in both addressing Nebraska’s need for affordable housing and providing wrap around services to remove barriers to thrive for people with disabilities.”