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Joyce Craig
Former Mayor | Manchester, NH

ARPA Case Study: Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig Invests in Affordable and Supportive Housing Initiatives

Idea Category: American Rescue Plan Act, Funding, Housing | Funding Source: American Rescue Plan

In June 2022, Mayor Joyce Craig announced a call for affordable housing proposals to apply for $3.4 million in investments of federal recovery funds, including from ARPA. This effort built on the $2.7 million of federal HOME funds already used to develop or renovate 152 affordable housing units in the city, and in October 2023, prior to the end of her term, Craig approved $3.8 million of ARPA and HOME funds for affordable and supportive housing initiatives that will create 188 affordable units, re-open a women’s shelter, and continue an effective housing voucher program.

Projects were selected based on their potential to provide the various types of housing and services that residents need. In addition to new construction, the funding extends an ARPA-funded program to incentivize landlords to rent to tenants with Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, and a partnership with a local non-profit to re-open a women’s shelter for an additional 2-3 years.

“Housing is the number one issue facing our community, and we are once again taking action to ensure our residents have a safe and affordable place to live,” said Craig. “The City of Manchester is prioritizing the development of affordable housing for Manchester families and increasing shelter options for our most vulnerable community members. This latest investment will provide affordable housing and shelter for hundreds of residents.”