Since 1987, the City of Jacksonville has received $3.774 million in Emergency Shelter Grants (ESG) funds awarded to the city through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.  ESG is designed to assist homeless persons by providing safe and sanitary shelter and essential social services necessary to improve their situations.  The program is also intended to reduce homelessness through the funding of preventive programs and activities. 

The entire Jacksonville, Duval County allocation of Emergency Shelter Grants funds is currently directed toward supporting homeless activities at the I.M. Sulzbacher Center for the Homeless.  These activities include:shelter, meals, medical, dental and mental health care, social services, job training and employment services.  ESG funds are administered by Housing Services Division of the Housing and Neighborhoods Department.

Agencies that provide activities that benefit homeless individuals may apply for Community Development Block Grant funds.