Santa Barbara County will receive $829,000 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help combat homelessness, thanks to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).

The funding will provide financial assistance to low-income residents to assist in payments of security deposits, rent and other housing needs. The intent of the funding is to prevent low-income residents from slipping into homelessness.

Santa Barbara County Third District Supervisor Doreen Farr made the announcement on Wednesday after the board unanimously voted to distribute the funds to several local community organizations.

“These funds are critically important to help people who are struggling during this economic downturn,” Farr said in a press release. 

“Providing vital housing assistance can make all the difference for families to keep a stable home rather than being forced to live in a shelter or on the streets.  This is also another example of how the County is putting Recovery Act funds to work quickly to assist those in need and to push forward a strong economic recovery for our community.”

The program is set to begin by Oct. 1 and be available for three years.