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The CSH sponsored Mid-Atlantic Region HMIS (MARHMIS) Forum which was held in Philadelphia on January 31, 2008. All of the materials presented at the Forum can be found online by clicking here. Of immediate interest is the power point used by Ann Oliva, the Director of HUD’s Office of Special Needs Assistance Program Office, was the keynote speaker at the event. As we noted in our previous post, which includes audio of her remarks, Ms. Oliva provided insights on the 2007 Awards, proposed legislation to reauthorize the McKinney-Vento program, two new initiatives for 2008, the relationship between HMIS and the COC and an overview of the 2008 competition. Her comments and insights are crucial for everyone involved in ending homelessness in New Jersey. We strongly encourage everyone to listen to her comments as well as review the power point file.

To view the power point click here. To view the file in PDF format click here.

 Ann Oliva on HUD's SNAPS Programs [44:31m]: Download

Ann Oliva, the Director of HUD’s Office of Special Needs Assistance Program Office, was the keynote speaker at the CSH sponsored Mid-Atlantic Region HMIS (MARHMIS) Forum which was held in Philadelphia on January 31, 2008. Ms. Oliva in a previous position worked to develop continuum of care plans in Washington DC and other communities. She provided insights on the 2007 Awards, proposed legislation to reauthorize the McKinney-Vento program, two new initiatives for 2008, the relationship between HMIS and the COC and an overview of the 2008 competition. Use the link below to listen to her important comments. Please share this post!

 Ann Oliva on HUD's SNAPS Programs [44:31m]: Download

Among her key points were:

The cut off for new funding in 2007 was more than 90 out of a possible 100. This was an increase from the 2006 cutoff of 86.

More than 6,266 applications from 464 CoC’s were submitted. Of these 94% were approved.

Only 49% of the applications scored higher than the cutoff and were thus able to receive new funding.

The portion of funding for housing versus services was at 64%.

The 2008 grant applications will be electronic but not through grants.gov. She stated that this was being done to expedite the review and approval process. By 2009 she stated the goal is to have awards approved in the same fiscal year they were appropriated by Congress.

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