Washington, DC – May 1, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) — Today, Congressman José E. Serrano (D-NY) released the following statement on the reintroduction of the Generational Residences and Nurturing Dwellings Act (GRAND) Act (H.R. 2188). The bill seeks to expand affordable housing for low-income grandparent-headed families by creating a competitive grant program within the Department of Housing and Urban Development for eligible non-profit organizations that provide specialized housing and supportive services to seniors raising children under the age of 18.
“Over the past decade, the amount of grandparents acting as primary caregivers for minor children has increased by 16 percent. Our federal policies and programs need to reflect the demographic and family composition changes taking place in our society. The GRAND Act attempts to address a growing need for affordable housing for grandparent-led families.
“By authorizing and facilitating the creation of a new grant program, the GRAND Act would allow eligible non-profit organizations to serve more ‘grandfamilies’. The grants would specifically help non-profits that intend to open, or already operate, specialized housing units build such facilities, cover operational expenses, provide rental assistance to eligible tenants, and offer supportive services to grandparents raising children.
“As the face of our nation’s families continues to change, we need to enact measures that strengthen and support the special needs of low-income families and children. The GRAND Act is an important step in ensuring low-income seniors that serve as primary caregivers are able to raise children in a safe and nurturing environment.
Click HERE for more information on H.R. 2188.
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