Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG)
The Emergency Solutions Grant funds local efforts in Pennsylvania to prevent and address homelessness through rapid rehousing, outreach, shelter, and data management, prioritizing a Housing First approach.
Funder: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2027 (application period opens, projected) | June 2027 (submission deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Minimum request $25,000; no maximum; typical total pool ~$5.7M; grant period up to 18 months.
Summary: Supports rapid rehousing, street outreach, homelessness prevention, emergency shelter, and HMIS for homeless and at-risk individuals in Pennsylvania.
Key Information: 100% match required (waivers available for small/low-resource applicants).
Description
The Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG), administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED), provides federal funding to local governments and nonprofits to address homelessness across Pennsylvania. The program supports rapid rehousing, street outreach, homelessness prevention, emergency shelter, and the management of homeless data systems (HMIS). ESG is designed to help individuals and families quickly regain stability in permanent housing after experiencing a housing crisis or homelessness, emphasizing a low-barrier, Housing First approach.
Eligible activities include financial and rental assistance, case management, shelter operations and renovations, data system support, and essential services for homeless and at-risk populations. All projects must align with local Continuum of Care (CoC) strategies and demonstrate clear community need, with a focus on serving the most vulnerable populations.
