The Ohio Department of Development has announced $550,000 in grants to help promote greater housing stability in the Mahoning Valley.

The program consists of two components, transitional housing and permanent supportive housing. It provides two-year grants that support rental assistance initiatives, operations, supportive services, administration, and data collection and evaluation.

Columbiana County Mental Health Clinic will receive $375,800 to operate two permanent supportive housing projects for single adults. The projects aim to assist 28 households, with 90 percent expected to secure or retain permanent housing.

YWCA Mahoning Valley will receive $70,200 to provide permanent supportive housing for 10 households in Trumbull County. The program aims for a 90 percent retention or transition rate to permanent housing.

The YWCA Mahoning Valley will also receive $112,000 to provide transitional housing for 24 households in Mahoning County. The program aims for an 83 percent transition rate to permanent housing with an average stay of 240 days.

"These grants will empower thousands of people to overcome barriers, stabilize their lives, and achieve self-sufficiency," said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development. "