The federal Department of Housing and Urban Development announced Thursday a $50,000 grant to the Housing Authority of Pasco & Franklin County.

The grant is one of $4.2 million awarded to 35 agencies throughout the Northwest that allows agencies to hire staff to help families with job training and employment resources.

"In today's economy, it's never been more critical to help families obtain the skills that lead to jobs," said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan.