Amy Young Barrier Removal Program

The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs administers the Amy Young Barrier Removal Program through the Texas Housing Trust Fund to support accessibility improvements for low-income households that include persons with disabilities. This program is designed to provide financial assistance for home modifications that remove physical barriers, improve accessibility, and address life-threatening hazards or substandard housing conditions. The initiative reflects the state’s broader commitment to improving housing stability and quality of life for vulnerable populations, particularly individuals with disabilities who require structural accommodations to safely remain in their homes. Funding for this program is derived from the State of Texas General Revenue appropriation to the Texas Housing Trust Fund. The total funding available for the program is approximately 1,555,177 dollars, which includes both project costs and administrative allowances. The funds are distributed through a structured reservation system and are made available to approved program administrators who have executed a Reservation System Participation Agreement with the Department. These administrators act as intermediaries, facilitating access to funding for eligible households and ensuring compliance with program requirements and applicable state rules. The program provides one-time grants of up to 22,500 dollars per household. These funds are strictly designated for accessibility-related home modifications, including structural changes that improve mobility, eliminate hazards, and correct unsafe or inadequate living conditions. Administrative costs are capped at ten percent of project expenditures, ensuring that the majority of funds are directed toward direct housing improvements. The program operates under a comprehensive regulatory framework, including multiple sections of the Texas Administrative Code and applicable state and federal laws, which govern eligibility, implementation, and compliance requirements. Eligible applicants for participation in the program are organizations that can administer the funds, including units of general local government, nonprofit organizations, public housing authorities, local mental health authorities, and councils of government. Certain jurisdictions that already receive federal HOME funding may be restricted from participating unless specific conditions are met. Applicants must undergo a review process that includes evaluation of prior participation and compliance with audit requirements. The Department’s Executive Director ultimately makes recommendations regarding funding allocations to the governing board. The application process for administrators is ongoing, with submissions accepted through an online file transfer system. Applicants must submit a complete application package that includes all required documentation and forms as specified in the program guidelines. Materials must adhere strictly to prescribed formats and cannot be altered. The Department emphasizes the importance of reviewing all governing rules and program materials prior to submission to ensure compliance and completeness. Funding availability follows a phased timeline through the reservation system. Initial funding is allocated by geographic subregions beginning in late October, followed by broader regional access in December, and finally statewide access in February. Funds remain available until early March unless exhausted earlier, after which any unreserved funds may be reallocated. While the program operates on a defined cycle, participation in the reservation system does not guarantee funding availability, and additional funds may be released intermittently due to cancellations or reallocations. For assistance or inquiries regarding the program, applicants may contact the Single Family and Homeless Programs Division via email. The program does not explicitly specify award notification timelines or performance periods, but all activities must comply with the Department’s administrative rules and procedures. This funding opportunity is not explicitly described as recurring, and timelines and funding availability may be adjusted at the Department’s discretion based on legislative changes or program needs.

Ensure full compliance with all Texas Administrative Code rules and submit complete documentation