Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG)
The Emergency Solutions Grant funds Pennsylvania projects for rapid rehousing, outreach, homelessness prevention, shelters, and data systems to address and reduce homelessness using evidence-based strategies.
Funder: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
Due Dates (Anticipated): June 2026
Funding Amounts: $25,000 minimum per award; no maximum stated; typical annual program funding ~$5.9M; project period up to 18 months
Summary: Supports rapid rehousing, street outreach, homelessness prevention, emergency shelter, HMIS, and administration to address homelessness in Pennsylvania.
Key Information: 100% match required (waivers available); competitive application; open to local governments and nonprofits (regional projects only).
Description
The Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), provides federal funding to support local efforts to rapidly rehouse homeless individuals and families, conduct street outreach, prevent homelessness, and provide emergency shelter. Funds may also be used for the maintenance of a Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) and for administrative costs. The program is authorized under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act as amended by the HEARTH Act of 2009. ESG is a highly competitive program, with awards made to projects that best demonstrate need, capacity, and alignment with state and federal priorities to end homelessness.
