The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded nearly $23 million to support new homeless programs across Indiana. The amount awarded reflects an increase of nearly $3.4 million from the amount awarded last year. Last month, HUD also announced nearly $18.4 million in grants to renew funding to 82 of local homeless assistance programs throughout Indiana.  Combined, this funding represents a record investment to support state and local efforts across the nation to reduce and end homelessness. HUD Secretary Ben Carson made the announcement in Akron, Ohio Friday during a visit to the Battered Women’s Shelter, a HUD-assisted local program that houses domestic violence victims who are at risk of homelessness.