Madison, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA) Division of Energy, Housing, and Community Resources (DEHCR) was honored by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Community Planning and Development’s 50th celebration of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.
“I’m very proud to see our incredible DEHCR staff being recognized on a statewide and national scale as part of the 50th anniversary celebration for CDBG,” said DOA Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld. “DEHCR worked diligently with our local partners to find a way to support a multi-faceted community project, recognizing both the need and opportunity to direct CDBG and other funding for maximum impact.”
DEHCR bureau directors were honored at the HUD 2024 Wisconsin All Grantee Meeting in Milwaukee on September 25, 2024.
Left to right: Matthew LaMantia, HUD CPD Regional Director; Tamra Fabian, Director for the Bureau of Community Development; Kenna Arvold, Director for the Bureau of Housing; and Garry Werra, HUD CPD Director
As part of the award-winning project, DEHCR partnered with the Southwestern Wisconsin Community Action Program (SWCAP) to support the building of a multipurpose community facility in Darlington, Wisconsin. The project included a Head Start childcare site, a Women’s Infants and Children’s nutrition center, and a food pantry, as well as the SW CAP’s Multicultural Outreach Program which offers support in healthcare, English language skills, nutrition education, legal and other assistance.
In addition, the State used HOME funds and tax credits to support a 32-unit affordable housing development serving agricultural workers and their families at the site, with 7 units designated for additional wraparound services. Secretary Blumenfeld celebrated the grand opening of The Meadows housing project in October 2022.
Most recently, Governor Evers directed over $20 million to 22 Wisconsin municipalities for public improvement projects through the CDBG program administered by DOA.
The Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA) is the flagship agency of the State of Wisconsin. Founded in 1959, it has been at the forefront of some of the most significant initiatives in Wisconsin State Government. DOA supports the Office of the Governor in the development and implementation of the biennial state budget, as well as centralized purchasing and financial management for state agencies, and works with the 11 federally recognized Native Nations in Wisconsin on gaming, coastal programs, and other key areas. The mission of DOA is to provide effective and efficient services at the best value to government agencies and the public.
The Division of Energy, Housing and Community Resources (DEHCR) offers a broad range of program assistance and resources to address homelessness and support affordable housing, public infrastructure, household energy needs, and economic development opportunities. The Division partners with local governments and service providers, non-profit agencies, housing authorities, and developers.
