People with disabilities in nearly every state will receive help accessing housing in the community thanks to an infusion of millions in federal dollars.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development said this week that it’s issuing $98.5 million in housing assistance specifically tagged to help those with disabilities.

The funding is part of the agency’s Section 811 Mainstream Housing Choice Voucher Program, which helps housing agencies assist people with disabilities ages 18 to 62 who are leaving institutional settings for community-based living situations as well as those at risk for institutionalization or homelessness.

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“HUD is committed to making sure people with disabilities have a decent, safe and affordable place to call home,” said Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Ben Carson. “Working closely with our local partners, we help residents with disabilities live independently and fully enjoy the use of their homes.”

The money will go to public housing authorities in 47 states and Washington, D.C. and is expected to provide vouchers to nearly 12,000 individuals.

In order to receive funding through the Section 811 Mainstream Housing Choice Voucher Program, housing agencies are encouraged to partner with health and human services agencies to provide supports to enable individuals to live independently in the community, federal housing officials said.

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