HPRP Explained: Your Guide to Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing

The Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP) remains one of the most impactful federal initiatives addressing housing instability in America. Created under the 2009 Recovery Act, this $1.5 billion program helped over 1.3 million people avoid homelessness or quickly regain housing during the Great Recession. Though no longer funded as a standalone program, HPRP’s framework continues to shape modern homelessness assistance nationwide. This guide breaks down how HPRP worked, who qualified, and where to find similar resources today.

What is HPRP? Understanding the Program’s Mission

HPRP (Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program) was an emergency response program launched by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) during the 2008 housing crisis. Its dual mission focused on:

• Prevention: Helping at-risk families maintain current housing through financial assistance
• Rapid Re-Housing: Supporting recently homeless individuals to quickly secure permanent housing

Unlike traditional shelter-based approaches, HPRP provided flexible funding directly to local communities through Continuums of Care (CoCs), empowering them to address housing emergencies with tailored solutions.

How HPRP Worked: Core Components and Services

Local agencies administered HPRP assistance through three primary service categories:

1. Financial Assistance
   • Rent arrears payments to prevent eviction
   • Security deposits and first month’s rent for new housing
   • Utility payment support
   • Moving cost assistance
2. Housing Relocation Services
   • Housing search assistance
   • Landlord mediation
   • Credit repair counseling
3. Case Management
   • Personalized housing stability plans
   • Budgeting and financial literacy training
   • Employment assistance referrals

Who Qualified for HPRP Assistance?

Eligibility requirements varied by community but generally included:

• Income at or below 50% of Area Median Income (AMI)
• Documented housing crisis (eviction notice, unsafe living conditions)
• Proof of prior residence (for prevention) or homelessness (for re-housing)
• U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status
• Demonstrated ability to maintain housing after assistance ended

Note: Priority was often given to families with children, veterans, and survivors of domestic violence.

HPRP’s Lasting Impact on Homelessness Policy

Though HPRP funding ended in 2012, its legacy transformed homelessness response systems:

• Proven Success: 84% of assisted households remained housed 18 months after receiving aid
• Cost Efficiency: Average prevention cost: $1,500 vs. $40,000+ for chronic homelessness
• System Redesign: Inspired HUD’s shift toward Housing First models
• Program Integration: Key elements absorbed into ESG (Emergency Solutions Grants) program

Finding HPRP-Like Assistance Today

While HPRP no longer exists, these resources offer similar support:

1. Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG): Federal program funding local prevention/re-housing services
2. 211 Helpline: Dial 211 or visit 211.org for local agency referrals
3. HUD Resource Locator: Search HUD.gov for housing counseling agencies
4. Community Action Agencies: Local nonprofits offering emergency assistance
5. Homebase (NYC) / Prevention Programs: Regional initiatives modeled after HPRP

Frequently Asked Questions About HPRP

Is HPRP still available in 2023?

No, HPRP closed in 2012. However, its framework continues through ESG and local programs using similar strategies.

What replaced HPRP funding?

The Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) program now funds homelessness prevention and rapid re-housing services nationwide.

How long did HPRP assistance last?

Most households received 3-6 months of rental assistance with a maximum of 18 months for extreme cases.

Could HPRP pay for hotel stays?

No. Funds were strictly for permanent housing – either maintaining existing leases or securing new ones.

Did HPRP help with mortgage payments?

No. The program exclusively assisted renters facing homelessness.

Are HPRP records still accessible?

Yes. Final reports and program evaluations remain available through HUD’s Homelessness Resource Exchange.

Key Takeaways on HPRP’s Legacy

Though the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program concluded over a decade ago, its evidence-based approach permanently reshaped how communities combat homelessness. By demonstrating that short-term, housing-focused interventions could successfully stabilize families at a fraction of shelter costs, HPRP proved prevention isn’t just compassionate – it’s practical policy. Today’s ESG-funded programs continue this mission, offering critical safety nets for those on the brink of housing crisis.