Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG)
The Pennsylvania ESG program funds research-based homelessness interventions—like rapid rehousing, outreach, and shelter improvements—requiring data-driven approaches and coordination with local Continuums of Care.
Funder: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
Due Dates (Anticipated): June 2027 (Full application submission deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Minimum request $25,000; no stated maximum; typical annual pool ~$5.7M; project period up to 18 months.
Summary: Supports local governments and nonprofits in Pennsylvania to rapidly rehouse homeless individuals, conduct outreach, prevent homelessness, operate emergency shelters, and manage data systems.
Key Information: 100% match required (waivers possible for small organizations); highly competitive; application via DCED Enterprise eGrants.
Description
The Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), provides federal funding to help local governments and eligible nonprofits address homelessness across Pennsylvania. Funds support rapid rehousing, street outreach, homelessness prevention, emergency shelter operations/renovations, and Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) activities. The program emphasizes low-barrier, housing-first approaches and requires coordination with local Continuums of Care (CoC). Projects must demonstrate regional need, measurable outcomes, and alignment with state and federal priorities for ending homelessness.
