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A $2.3 million grant obtained by the Selma Housing Authority will allow residents to get assistance so that they can enter the workforce.

Selma Housing Authority executive director Kennard Randolph said the money, which will be distributed over the next four years, will help provide necessary assistance to adults in housing.

“Well, I think it’s a game changer,” Randolph said. “As we all know, poverty is an issue in Selma. We want to make sure that we bridge that wealth gap. This is one of those ways that the housing authority can help with economic development, job placement and gainful employment.”

Jennifer Riley Collins, regional administrator for the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, said the grant will bring the Jobs Plus Program to Selma, which allows the housing authority to offer services to help them bridge the gap.

“These awards go to public housing agencies and will help to increase economic mobility for all families across this country,” Collins said. “The state of Alabama received $3.9 million, and of that $3.9 million, I am happy to say that part of that money is coming right here to Selma today. ​I am honored to be here today to present a check to the Selma Housing Authority for $2.3 million.”

Kennard said they plan to launch the initiative as soon as October. He said the grant will also mean that the housing authority will need to add five employees. Those positions have been posted.

He said it was a community cooperation to bring the grant to Selma. 

“I just want to say a quick thank you to our community partners,” Randolph said. “Thank you for making this partnership a collaboration happen. So we’re so appreciative of the support from the community.”