Valdosta Receives $3 Million HUD Grant to Enhance Public Housing Employment Opportunities

The City of Valdosta is proud to announce that the Valdosta Housing Authority has been awarded a $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) through the Jobs Plus Initiative Program. City officials, including Mayor Scott James Matheson, attended the presentation ceremony on Thursday, July 11th at the Robert Jenkins Community Center.  

"We are incredibly honored that HUD has recognized and rewarded the great team effort being put forth by our housing authority and local government,” said Mayor Scott James Matheson. "This grant represents a significant investment in our community and a powerful opportunity to support our residents in achieving economic independence and improving their quality of life. We look forward to seeing the positive impact this program will have on our community."  

The Jobs Plus Initiative program is designed to empower communities by developing locally-based, job-driven strategies to enhance employment outcomes. This initiative will focus on work readiness, employer connections, job placements, educational advancements, technology skills, and financial literacy for public housing residents.  

Georgia Field Office Director for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Shea Johnson said, "HUD aspires for our housing authority residents to thrive and not just survive. The Jobs Plus Program is an amazing resource that will empower Valdosta residents and build generational wealth." 

Following the award presentation, city officials and community leaders engaged in a productive roundtable discussion about housing. The discussion focused on strategies to further improve housing conditions and support services for Valdosta residents.  

“The Valdosta Housing Authority is poised to take our Resident Services Program delivery to a new level, with this exciting JobsPlus Grant opportunity,” said Valdosta Housing Authority Executive Director Mark Stalvey. “Public housing was designed to be a “hand up” for families, and this great opportunity will further our mission of assisting residents in increasing their income and financial security through intense education, job training and job opportunity networking with our local partners. Economic development comes in many forms, and this Program enhances our ability to work with our local elected officials to achieve a better Valdosta for all citizens." 

The program's focus is to integrate employment-related services into public housing communities, offering comprehensive support to residents. The grant will be used to implement these services, fostering a stronger, more self-sufficient community.