The Washington Post reports this morning that the city is going to begin distributing $7.5 million in stimulus money this week to needy families making a maximum income of $30,000. Couldn’t come at a better time as we settle into hypothermia season, which began in early November. Here are some more details on how the funds will be disseminated by the Department of Human Services:

“About $2.4 million will put people who lost their jobs and homes into housing. DHS has set aside more than $1.9 million for rental subsidies that can continue for nearly two years.

An additional $1 million has been allocated for families at risk of losing their homes — $750,000 for past-due rent; $50,000 to help with overdue water, sewage, garbage collection, heat and electricity bills; and $240,000 for use for the first month’s rent and security deposit on rental housing. Families are eligible for up to $6,500 in assistance related to homelessness prevention, while individuals can receive up to $5,000, according to a statement from the city.

DHS has $1.4 million more to pay caseworkers and other staff to ensure that families accepted into the program remain in housing with services and counseling. Housing Counseling Services will receive $80,000 to help families in their search for housing.”