January 21, 2005

United Way Innovation Award

United Way of San Luis Obispo County today recognized the San Luis Obispo County Housing Trust Fund for its success in leveraging funds to address local housing needs.

"The Fund's example of multiplying resources is an impressive one that we feel deserves recognition," expressed Susan Kingscott, United Way's Vice President for Community Initiatives.

The Fund received United Way's 2004 Community Innovation Multiplying Resources Award for demonstrating creativity and effectiveness in the use of United Way funds to attract commitments from other funding sources. The Award includes a $2,000 grant.

"We are excited to receive United Way's award," responded Jerry Rioux, the Fund's Executive Director. "United Way's early and consistent support for our organization has been critical to our success."

The San Luis Obispo County Housing Trust Fund is a nonprofit corporation that was created to increase the supply of affordable housing throughout San Luis Obispo County. Rather than develop, own or manage housing, the Fund provides financing and technical assistance to help private developers, nonprofit agencies and local governments produce and preserve homes that working families, seniors on fixed incomes and persons with disabilities can afford to rent or buy.

The Fund currently has more than $1 million available to lend for affordable housing projects. Their goal is to raise an additional $2 million by the end of 2005.

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