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• out the details. It will be more than a year from now when the first trainees coming out of the transitional housing program or the Samaritan Center will be able to apply for funds. Commissioner Stanbridge questioned whether the money could be reallocated if the grant application were not accepted, and Director Keating responded that the funds could be reallocated at that time. Ms. Hubbard noted that the funds will not be allocated unless the individual gets a regular commercial loan. Commissioner Macht commented that the Continuum of Care comes in here. The individuals applying for the funds are given counseling and training as a part of the transitional program to obtain permanent housing. Commissioner Stanbridge stated that HUD will fund $303,000 and the County will fund $200,000. She asked to see the guidelines and standards for the grants. In response to Commissioner Adams' comment about creating an "express line" for these individuals, Ms. Hubbard responded that if the individuals are not adequately prepared, they will not be able to get their first mortgage financing from a lender and will, therefore, not qualify for the County funds. Commissioner March noted that this is a request that has no risk. The Samaritan Center takes people into their in-house program and monitors them, training them to become taxpayers instead of a tax drain. These individuals have no mechanism for improvement if you don't give them a chance. Dave Pearson, of Habitat For Humanity, thanked staff and the Board for their support of the SHIP program. Habitat for Humanity works with very low-income people and the SHIP fimds are only repaid if the property is sold. No obligation for a monthly payment is what makes the program work for these people. HFH built 5 homes this year and expects MAY 23, 2000 • -43- BOOKPAGE a