576.1—Applicability and purpose.
This part implements the Emergency Shelter Grants program contained in subtitle B of title IV of the Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 11371-113 78). The program authorizes the Secretary to make grants to States, units of general local government, territories, and Indian tribes (and to private nonprofit organizations providing assistance to homeless individuals in the case of grants made with reallocated amounts) for the rehabilitation or conversion of buildings for use as emergency shelter for the homeless, for the payment of certain operating expenses and essential services in connection with emergency shelters for the homeless, and for homeless prevention activities. The program is designed to be the first step in a continuum of assistance to enable homeless individuals and families to move toward independent living as well as to prevent homelessness.