About Public Housing Neighborhood Networks

In 2001, Congress created the Public Housing Neighborhood Networks (NN) grant program which provided grants to Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) to create and expand computer learning centers on or near PHA developments.

After 2006, Congress did not renew funding for the PH NN program. HUD issued the last grants in 2007. However, in order to mitigate the loss of direct grant funding, Congress changed the HUD statute to allow Public Housing Authorities to use Capital Funds to establish a Neighborhood Networks center and Operating Funds (including Operating Reserves) for the ongoing operation of a center. Ongoing Neighborhood Networks' staff salaries are an eligible Operating Fund cost.

In addition to providing computer classes and access to the Internet, grant funding makes possible a wide array of programs and services which include after-school programs for children, career counseling for adults, and health-related information for senior residents.

Today, approximately 180 PHAs have one or more Neighborhood Networks center(s) and staff who oversee the daily operations of the centers. By helping residents become self-sufficient, Public Housing Neighborhood Networks centers, like their Multifamily counterparts, are providing an important service to communities around the country.

Want to learn more? Explore Neighborhood Networks through the links provided on this page. For questions or to share your Neighborhood Networks experience send an e-mail, or call the Neighborhood Networks Information Center toll-free at (888) 312-2743.