The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded $50,000 to increase hiring of low-income individuals and public housing residents in the city of Springfield.

Springfield joins 12 other housing authorities, cities and states each receiving $50,000 from HUD to hire full-time Section 3 program coordinators for one year. These grants will maximize a HUD program that ensures HUD dollars are used to hire low-income individuals and to contract with businesses that hire them.

Section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 promotes new employment, training, and contracting opportunities on federal HUD-funded projects. "The funding announced today advances HUD’s commitment to investing in people as well as buildings in areas of the country that need it greatly," said John Trasviña, HUD Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. "Having a Section 3 Program Coordinator has been shown to be a best practice, maximizing a grantee’s ability to promote jobs, contracts, and training opportunities."

Eighty-five housing authorities and local and state governments from around the country applied for this competitive national grant. Grants were awarded to housing authorities and jurisdictions with high unemployment and a demonstrated commitment to partner with other local agencies and sustain the position after one year.

For additional information about HUD’s Section 3 program and the receipients, go to: www.hud.gov/section3.