Emergency Solutions Grant

The Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program was established through the Stewart B. McKinney Act of 1987, as amended by the Homeless Emergency Assistance and Rapid Transition to Housing of 2009 – the HEARTH Act

The purpose of the Federal ESG Program is to help improve the quality and quantity of emergency shelters for homeless persons, to help cover the costs of operating emergency shelters, and to fund essential supportive services to homeless individuals so they may have access to safe and sanitary shelter and the services and assistance they need to improve their situations. In addition, the ESG Program is used to fund short-term rental assistance to prevent homelessness, as well as to help move homeless persons back into permanent rental housing. Finally, the program can assist street outreach programs to connect unsheltered homeless persons with local housing and supportive services.

Funds are available annually and are awarded by the Department of Children and Families through a grant application process. Non-profit agencies and government entities are eligible to apply. Details about the allocation process are outlined in the state's consolidated plan and in the documents below.