Access to Rental Assistance
Applicants supported by the Collective will have access to a variety of rental assistance programs such as Rapid Re-Housing, Special Purpose Vouchers, and Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS/Tenant-Based Rental Assistance. These programs financially help individuals and families obtain permanent housing.
Rapid Re-Housing
Participants receive a certain number of months of rental assistance that eventually tapers off over time. The goal of Rapid Re-Housing (RRH) is to quickly and permanently house an individual or family that is experiencing homelessness with the rental assistance from the Rapid Re-Housing program and layer it with other stability goals such as employment so that the individual or family will gradually become prepared to take on the full responsibility of the lease. Rapid Re-Housing rental assistance is limited, however, participants can later receive a housing voucher if needed.
Special Purpose Vouchers
Special Purpose Vouchers include housing voucher programs such as:
- Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH)
- Shelter Plus Care (SPC)
- Mainstream
- Family Unification Program (FUP)
Rent portions and rental assistance are based on 30% of the participant’s adjusted monthly income. Eligibility, rent portions, and rental assistance are determined by Metropolitan Housing & Development Agency (MDHA). Special Purpose Vouchers may be used by the participant as long as the participant meets the eligibility criteria.
Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS/Tenant-Based Rental Assistance
The goal of the HOPWA (Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS) program is to provide housing assistance and eligible supportive services for income-eligible individuals living with HIV/AIDS and their families to establish or maintain a stable living environment in housing; to reduce the risk of homelessness; and to improve health and other quality of life outcomes. Within the program, a TBRA (Tenant-Based Rental Assistance) voucher is used to subsidize rent payments for participants, making housing more affordable.