PROJECTS to tackle homelessness and housing issues have been given a £2.1 million funding boost.
The funding will be shared between 29 new and existing schemes which applied for the Housing Voluntary Grant Scheme 2014/15.
They include projects supporting young people left homeless, prisoners on their release from jail and housing in rural areas.
Housing Options Scotland has been awarded £221,250 for its work ensuring disabled people have access to suitable housing while the Shelter Housing Law Service, which offers tenants legal advice, has been given a £185,473 boost.
The Rural Housing Partnership has been granted £180,000 to help address local housing, particularly in Dumfries and Galloway and the Highlands.
Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: "We recognise that homelessness also applies to those living in a hostel or having to stay in unsuitable accommodation.
"That's why I'm delighted to announce that £2 million funding will be spread across 29 worthwhile and innovative projects through the Housing Voluntary Grant Scheme."
Moira Bayne, Housing Options Scotland's chief executive, said: "Our grant award for 2014 will enable us to provide quicker response times for new clients and expand our outreach work through our Military Matters and Peer Support projects."
Other projects to benefit include the Bethany Christian Trust, which has received funding for the first time with £44,000; Crisis UK got £78,943; the Scottish Churches Housing Action was awarded £65,000.
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