In the News

Lori Trahan delivers nearly $8M in HUD funding to 3rd District

LOWELL — U.S. Rep. Lori Trahan is bringing almost $8 million in federal funding home to the 3rd Congressional District communities of Lowell, Fitchburg, Lawrence, and Haverhill to support housing and homeless programs and community development initiatives.

The funding, administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, is being awarded through the Community Development Block Grants, the HOME Investment Partnerships Program and Emergency Solutions Grants federal programs.

Trahan said those communities will be able to use the HUD funds to expand the impact and reach of their local programs and services.

“Communities like Lowell, Lawrence, Fitchburg, and Haverhill are doing remarkable work to create more affordable housing, boost their economies, and support those experiencing or at risk of homelessness,” Trahan said in a statement on Thursday.

She noted that these kinds of federal investments are only possible with strong collaboration across local, state and federal levels of government.

“I’m committed to our continued work with community leaders to make sure we get the federal funding necessary to make our district a better, more affordable place to call home,” Trahan said.

The funding recognizes the whole-of-community approach advocated by HUD, which encourages communities to take ownership of community development investments to address the needs of its residents.

The biggest portion of the nearly $8 million in federal funding is coming to Lowell, which is slated to receive $3,123,979, followed by Lawrence at $2,451,008, Fitchburg at $1,349,618 and Haverhill at $947,975.

Lowell’s portion breaks down into CDBG funds of $2,141,212, HOME funding of $796,315 and ESG funding totaling $186,452.

The CDBG program provides federal funding to communities to create affordable housing and invest in critical local projects. HOME is the largest federal block grant to state and local governments designed exclusively to create affordable housing for low-income households, while ESG money provides federal funds for programs that offer services to individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

“The federal funding announced today is a significant investment in the well-being of our community,” City Manager Tom Golden said.

Trahan’s announcement doubles Lowell’s current CDBG and ESG allocation, which the City Council already approved in April for fiscal 2025.

Fourteen social service agencies, such as House of Hope, Merrimack Valley Food Bank, Mill City Grows, and Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association, received between $15,000 to $30,000 in CDBGs for their community programming that addresses food insecurity, English-language learner classes, counseling for first-time homebuyers and in-school centers for students to access clothing and hygiene products.

Seven non-social services agencies and departments, such as the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Lowell, Community Teamwork Inc., Lowell Parks & Conservation Trust and the city Department of Planning and Development, received between $30,000 to almost $700,000 for their community programming such as farmers’ markets, economic development and to make various public facilities compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The council also approved nearly $200,000 in ESG funds for homeless providers like Eliot Church and Life Connections to bring services and supports to unhoused people, as well as short-term financial assistance to survivors of domestic violence through Alternative House.

Mayor Dan Rourke said the additional funds will go a long way in supporting the city’s ongoing efforts to provide affordable housing, foster community development and assist those experiencing homelessness in Lowell.

“This funding is a testament to the power of collaboration between local and federal entities,” Rourke said. “We thank Congresswoman Lori Trahan and HUD for their commitment to Lowell and other communities in our region.”

A vote authorizing the approval of the Lowell’s $3 million allocation will be prepared by Golden for presentation to the council.

He thanked Trahan for her advocacy and collaboration to address challenging local issues with federal clout and monies.

“This support, made possible through the advocacy of Congresswoman Trahan, highlights the power of collaboration in addressing our city’s most pressing needs,” Golden said. “We are thankful for this investment and remain committed to driving positive change for all of our residents.”

Fitchburg’s $1,349,618 portion comprises $919,836 in CDBG and $429,782 in HOME funding.

“The Community Development Block Grant and HOME Programs are both critical funding sources for the City of Fitchburg to support community improvements beyond basic municipal services,” said Fitchburg Mayor Sam Squailia. “These invaluable resources will help the City support important initiatives including furthering affordable housing, improving housing quality, parks and playground improvements, small business assistance, youth services, energy assistance, and homelessness services.”