U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Scott Turner delivered an update on the status of vital HUD programs during the government’s shutdown.
“HUD is keeping critical services online for the more than 4 million American families that depend on HUD assistance to keep a roof over their heads,” he said.
According to Turner, the government shutdown impacted the following:
Healthcare financing: New HUD-backed loans for healthcare projects were on hold and HUD’s Federal Housing Administration (FHA) could no longer work on new insurance applications for healthcare projects that total almost $2 billion in mortgages to support over 12,800 beds and care units for those in care facilities across over 30 states.
Seniors: All endorsements of FHA-supported reverse mortgage loans were suspended, creating a backlog that grew by approximately 60 transactions each business day. This delay had the most immediate impact on seniors who could not access funds against their mortgage for healthcare, daily living or to age in place.
Health and safety: The repair of over 10,000 homes that could be made safe and healthy through HUD’s Lead Hazard Reduction Grant Program was stalled.
Tribal communities: HUD’s Section 184 Housing Program, which helps Native American communities access affordable housing, was halted. HUD could no longer guarantee new loans for tribal communities.
Public housing: Public Housing Authorities eventually ran out of resources to house and support Americans, resulting in delayed maintenance on buildings during winter months and reduced safety measures.