On January 4, 2012 HUD published the final rule for the amended Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), which integrated the regulation and definition of “homeless” and amended certain Consolidated Plan regulations.  The Hearth Act also required HUD to establish standards related to HMIS, including standards related to encryption of the data collected and the rights of persons receiving services under the McKinney-Vento Act.   The regulations also require that all providers must participate in HMIS and coordinate with recipients of Continuum of Care Program funds.

Therefore, in consultation with the Hartford HUD field office, the City has determined that its ESG recipients currently in funding agreements expiring June 30, 2012 are not eligible for renewal.  Any agency interested in City of Hartford ESG funds for the next fiscal year must submit a new, competitive application for funding.  The City estimates it shall have approximately $180,000 available for maintenance and operations of an emergency shelter, supportive services, and HMIS. The City is not releasing an RFP for its rental assistance/housing relocation and stabilization component at this time.