GWINNETT COUNTY, GA — Thousands of Gwinnett County residents could soon receive new assistance with housing, rent and food after county leaders approved a plan directing millions of federal dollars toward community programs.
Gwinnett County commissioners have approved the 2026 Action Plan, which will distribute more than $8.9 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development across 54 projects.
A portion of the funding will help people trying to purchase their first home. Under the plan, 20 first-time homebuyers could receive $10,000 each in down-payment assistance. Rental assistance will also be available with the goal of helping more than 300 households avoid eviction.
Housing development is another major part of the initiative. More than 90 new affordable housing units are planned through partnerships with Gwinnett Housing Corporation and Habitat for Humanity. The developments are expected to include a mix of traditional single-family homes and other housing options.
The federal money will also address food insecurity. Approximately $700,000 is designated for a new Norcross Meals on Wheels facility, an expansion expected to add capacity for about 125,000 additional meals annually. Another $1.5 million is earmarked for construction of a food pantry in the Hamilton Mill area.
County officials expect federal approval within weeks. Once the funding arrives, Gwinnett leaders can begin finalizing contracts, designs and other steps needed to move the projects forward.
The overall effort is expected to benefit more than 15,000 lower-income residents, providing assistance ranging from keeping families in their homes to helping others take their first steps toward homeownership.
(Photo by JUAN MABROMATA/AFP via Getty Images)
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