Federal officials are sending millions of dollars to states in an effort to provide better housing options for people with disabilities.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development said this month that 18 states will share in $138.5 million in grants made available through the Section 811 Project Rental Assistance for Persons with Disabilities program.

“Under the Biden-Harris administration, we are committed to removing barriers to housing and ensuring that everyone has access to an accessible, quality and affordable home that meets their needs,” said Adrianne Todman, the housing agency’s acting secretary. “Today’s awards will support Americans with disabilities by both creating affordable housing and expanding crucial support services.”

Housing agencies in each of the selected states will receive between $4 million and $8 million to help people with disabilities access affordable homes within existing, new or renovated multifamily developments, officials said. The funding will allow states to develop strategies to identify and refer individuals to housing options and provide them rental assistance.

The state agencies will also be expected to work with Medicaid or health and human services agencies to connect people with disabilities to community-based supports and services that they can rely on for the long term, according to HUD.

“Adults with disabilities often face significant barriers in securing a safe and stable place to live,” said Julia Gordon, assistant secretary for housing and the federal housing commissioner. “These awards create opportunities for more housing that’s available, accessible and inclusive.”

The grants are going to housing agencies in California, Ohio, Wisconsin, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Indiana, Nebraska, Kansas, Texas, Minnesota, Washington, Michigan, Kentucky, Utah and Oregon. They are expected to support more than 3,000 housing units.

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