Lycoming County receives an annual allocation of Homeless Assistance Program (HAP) funds through a Lycoming County Human Service Block Grant (HSBG). HAP is a county-directed program that offers a variety of supportive services to individuals and families experiencing or at risk for homelessness and who can demonstrate that, with HAP intervention, they will be able to meet their basic housing needs in the near term. HAP includes five (5) components: bridge housing, case management, rental assistance, emergency shelter, and innovative supportive housing.

According to a news release, the Lycoming County United Way, now doing business as the United Way of North Central Pennsylvania (UWNCPA) as a grant sub-recipient on behalf of the County of Lycoming, is now accepting applications from agencies to allocate up to $195,505 in HAP funds for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026. Eligible applicants must: Be an agency in Lycoming County; Be private voluntary nonprofits or units of government; Ensure that only homeless or near homeless clients are served with HAP funds; Practice nondiscrimination; Demonstrate the capability to provide at least one or more of the five (5) components listed above; Maintain client case records and client intake procedures; Allow monitoring by UWNCPA and/or the County of Lycoming; and comply with all HAP grant terms, conditions, and funding requirements.

Agencies interested in applying for HAP funds can visit www.uwncpa.org/HAP or contact Carolyn Hawk at 570-666-4379. The application deadline is Tuesday, Dec. 30 at 4 p.m.

United Way of North Central Pennsylvania is a charitable non-profit organization boasting over a century of commitment and service to our communities. From strengthening local resilience to advancing health, youth opportunity, and financial security, United Way of North Central Pennsylvania is mobilizing communities to action so all can thrive in Lycoming, Sullivan, and Tioga counties. True to our founding spirit, whenever there is a need in our communities, we are there. We bring a comprehensive approach to every challenge, actively listening and responding to local needs through volunteer and community engagement, grant funding opportunities, and advocacy efforts