The City of Tucson’s FY 2026 Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Program supports projects that address homelessness through eligible activities such as emergency shelter and rapid rehousing. Approximately $297,272 in ESG funds are anticipated, with $248,538 for emergency shelters and $48,734 for rapid rehousing. Projects must align with the City’s People, Communities, and Homes Investment Plan (P-CHIP) priorities, including solving homelessness, improving health equity, and reducing poverty. Applications are due by December 20, 2024, at 5:00 PM MST via the Neighborly software portal.

Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, grassroots organizations with a fiscal agent, and City of Tucson departments. Applicants must have at least three years of relevant experience and comply with federal ESG regulations under 24 CFR Part 576. Proposed budgets must request a minimum of $25,000 and align with eligible cost categories, such as shelter operations, essential services, housing relocation, stabilization, and rental assistance. Applicants must also provide a 100% match in non-federal funds, which can include cash or in-kind contributions.

Emergency shelter projects can include services such as case management, childcare, health and education services, and transportation. Shelter operation costs, including utilities and food, are also eligible. Rapid rehousing projects may provide rental and utility assistance, housing search and placement, and stabilization services. All projects must adhere to requirements for habitability, lead-based paint standards, and fair housing.

Applications will be reviewed in multiple stages, including a threshold review, a Community Review Panel evaluation, and final approval by the Mayor and Council in March 2025. Evaluation criteria emphasize alignment with P-CHIP goals, equity, community impact, and budget feasibility. Selected projects must demonstrate progressive spending and report on shared performance metrics.

Grantees must participate in Tucson Pima Collaboration to End Homelessness (TPCH) activities, including Coordinated Entry, quarterly reporting, and the annual Point in Time Count. Other compliance requirements include maintaining a drug-free workplace, protecting participants’ confidentiality, and adhering to federal non-discrimination and housing equity policies.

A pre-proposal conference will be held on November 18, 2024, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM MST to clarify the application process. Questions may be submitted until December 13, 2024, with responses posted weekly. For more details, applicants can consult the Neighborly portal or email HCDgrants@tucsonaz.gov.