WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded $802,465 to Kingston through HUD’s Community Development Block Grant program. This formula grant will assist in providing critical housing services for Upstate New Yorkers not readily available through any other private or government source.

This program provides communities with resources to address a wide range of development needs. The Community Development Block Grant program provides annual grants to states and other units of local government to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate-income persons. CDBG funds can be used to help combat the vacant housing crisis that is choking neighborhood rejuvenation and draining valuable resources in Kingston and other cities across the Hudson Valley.

“This grant will help revitalize the city by providing critical housing resources and opportunities to residents in Kingston,” said Senator Charles Schumer. “CDBG grants will go a long way in protecting families currently in danger of losing their homes, families who have already lost their homes, and the millions more who could be at risk if we don’t act.”

Mayor James Sottile did not return phone calls for comment.