Auditor General to examine programs meant to combat homelessness

(Harrisburg) — The state’s top fiscal watchdog is keying in on a program run by the commonwealth’s Department of Community and Economic Development.

Auditor General Eugene DePasquale will examine how DCED has spent money to come up with solutions to homelessness in Pennsylvania.

“It’s not just about being efficient, although that’s part of it, but also how effective they are,” says DePasquale.

The audit of the programs, which are funded by federal grants, will span from July 2011 until June of last year.

DePasquale plans to key in on how DCED makes sure the grants are spent in compliance with federal rules and whether it moves funds around if a program no longer meets requirements.

One program – Emergency Solutions – aims to get housing quickly for victims of domestic abuse, people with disabilities, and displaced families.

The other – HOME Investment Partnership – tries to develop long-term solutions to bring more affordable housing to communities.