Islip Town gets federal housing funds

Islip Town will get almost $4.6 million in federal housing aid for affordable housing, help for the homeless and people with AIDS.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development said the money was part of Congress’ continuing appropriations resolution, which funds the government’s normal operations and programs as lawmakers and President Barack Obama negotiate the new spending budget.

The biggest chunk of Islip’s aid, $1.85 million, has been reserved for revitalizing communities, including buying up foreclosures, rehabilitating homes into affordable housing and creating jobs, HUD said.

Through another allocation of $1.84 million, the town can fund housing help and support services for people with AIDS and their families.

Also, an $809,000 grant will allow Islip to buy and renovate properties  to create affordable houses and apartments for low-income families, according to federal officials.

HUD said the rest of the aid, about $90,000, will provide services for the homeless and short-term housing for people on the verge of being foreclosed or evicted.

“This is great news for the Town of Islip,” said Islip Supervisor Phil Nolan. “A great deal of hard work goes into these applications and it’s very gratifying to have this grant awarded. The funding will lead to great improvements in the lives of many people in our community."