Public invited to learn about funds for neighborhood improvements

The County of San Diego’s Department of Housing and Community Development invites Fallbrook residents and organizations to attend a meeting on Wednesday, September 26, to get information about approximately $11.6 million in federal funds for community development and affordable housing. The meeting will be at 10 a.m. at the Fallbrook Community Center, 341 Heald Lane.

County staff will provide information, explain how to apply for the funds and answer questions. The funds are provided through four US Department of Housing and Urban Development programs, including the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.

Approximately $4.8 million is available from the CDBG program, which focuses on improving and revitalizing low-income communities. Eligible projects include street upgrades, community centers, parks, youth and senior centers, water and drainage improvements and housing rehabilitation loans. The application deadline for CDBG funding is October 26, 2007.

Three other programs fund affordable housing and homeless assistance projects, including services for people living with HIV or AIDS. Application deadlines vary.

For additional information, contact April Torbett in Housing and Community Development at (858) 694-4885 or visit the “Community Partners” section of http://www.sdhcd.com.

People who need assistance to participate in the meetings, such as non-English speakers and hearing or visually impaired individuals, should call staff at least five days prior to the meeting to make special arrangements.