Fair Housing Initiatives Program - Education and Outreach Initiative (COVID-19)

Congress authorized the Fair Housing Initiatives Program (FHIP) in 1987 under Section 561 of the Community Development Act of 1987 as amended (42 U.S.C. 3616). Program regulations can be found at 24 CFR Part 125, which are incorporated by reference in this Notice. As part of the COVID-19 Supplemental Appropriation for the CARES Act of 2020, Congress appropriated 1 million dollars for FHIP. The purpose of this Notice is to seek applications from eligible entities that will create and disseminate fair housing education and outreach materials in COVID-19 affected areas. During this national emergency, HUD wants to remind housing providers and the public of important federal fair housing laws that protect persons from discrimination, including harassment and intimidation in housing and related services on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status and disability. HUD is already aware that persons with disabilities, including those who are older and have underlying medical conditions, are vulnerable and at high risk for a severe, life-threatening response to COVID-19. HUD recognizes that these persons may face unique fair housing and civil rights issues in their fair housing related services. Housing providers are required to make reasonable accommodations that may be necessary to deliver housing and services to persons with disabilities affecting major life activities. In addition, HUD wants to prevent discrimination and harassment against people of who, because of racial profiling, are perceived to be associated with this disease. Historically, the number of fair housing complaints increases in the aftermath of a disaster or emergency. Essential to control the number of Fair Housing Act violations during this critical time, is the provision of widespread, highly visible outreach and education activities regarding the Fair Housing Act requirements. $500,000 for a National Media Campaign; and $500,000 for general education and outreach activities aimed to inform people of their rights and responsibilities under the Fair Housing Act. This NOFA will receive applications for the EOI NOFA only.