WASHINGTON, DC - In an effort to promote greater self-sufficiency for Rhode Islanders living in public housing, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) today announced that Providence and Central Falls will receive $560,260 in federal funding through the Resident Opportunities for Self Sufficiency (ROSS) Program. The Housing Authority of the City of Providence will receive a $350,000 ROSS Family and Homeownership grant and the Central Falls Housing Authority will receive a $210,260 ROSS Elderly grant. The ROSS grant program provides funds for job training and supportive services to help residents of public housing transition from welfare to work.

"This federal funding will allow housing authorities in Providence and Central Falls to provide families and seniors in public housing with critical support services to help them achieve and maintain self-sufficiency. This program is geared towards helping people who want to help themselves," said Reed, a member of the Banking Committee, which oversees federal housing policy. "The work that ROSS program coordinators do is invaluable. The educational, employment, and life training skills they provide will help more Rhode Islanders live independently."

The ROSS Family and Homeownership grant program provides funds for job training and services including job placement, educational programming, and college preparatory classes to help residents of public housing transition from welfare to work. Supportive services such as child care and transportation help families take advantage of the program's training and employment opportunities.

The ROSS Elderly grant program provides funding to link elderly and disabled residents to critical services such as wellness programs and meal services, which can help them continue to live independently.

The funding will be administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Affairs (HUD).