Beyond Bending Tell You How
The Cranston Housing Authority (CHA) is a public agency in Rhode Island that provides affordable housing options for low-income individuals and families. Established in 1969, the CHA is responsible for administering various federal and state housing programs that offer rental assistance, affordable housing units, and supportive services to those in need.
With a mission to enhance the quality of life for Cranston residents by providing decent, safe, and affordable housing, the CHA has become a vital resource for individuals and families struggling with housing insecurity. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the Cranston Housing Authority, its programs and services, and how it is making a positive impact in the lives of Rhode Island residents.
History of the Cranston Housing Authority
The Cranston Housing Authority was established in 1969 as a result of the federal Housing Act of 1937, which aimed to provide safe and affordable housing for low-income families. The CHA was created to administer federal housing programs in the City of Cranston and to provide housing assistance to eligible residents.
Over the years, the CHA has expanded its programs and services to meet the changing needs of its residents. Today, the CHA is responsible for administering several programs that provide affordable housing options and supportive services to low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
CHA Programs and Services
Public Housing Program
The Public Housing Program is one of the primary programs offered by the CHA. This program provides affordable housing units for eligible low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. The CHA owns and manages several public housing developments throughout the City of Cranston, including Bayside Terrace, Cranston Housing Development Corporation, and Dean Estates.
Residents in the Public Housing Program pay rent based on their income, which is typically 30% of their adjusted gross income. The CHA provides maintenance and repair services for all public housing units, as well as supportive services such as social work, job training, and education assistance.
Housing Choice Voucher Program
The Housing Choice Voucher Program, also known as Section 8, is another program offered by the CHA. This program provides rental assistance to eligible low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Participants in the program receive a voucher that can be used to subsidize their rent in a privately owned housing unit.
The CHA works with landlords in the community to provide safe and affordable housing options for voucher holders. Landlords who participate in the program receive a portion of the rent directly from the CHA, while the voucher holder pays the remaining portion based on their income.
Family Self-Sufficiency Program
The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program is a voluntary program offered to participants in the Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher Programs. The FSS program is designed to help families become financially independent by providing education and job training opportunities.
Participants in the FSS program work with a case manager to develop a plan to achieve their goals, such as obtaining a degree or certification, finding employment, or starting a small business. As participants achieve their goals, they are able to increase their income and eventually become self-sufficient.
Homeownership Program
The Homeownership Program is a program offered by the CHA that helps eligible low-income families purchase their own home. Participants in the program receive financial assistance in the form of a down payment and closing cost assistance, as well as education and counseling to help them navigate the homebuying process.
The CHA partners with local lenders and real estate agents to provide affordable housing options for program participants. The Homeownership Program is designed to help families achieve the goal of homeownership and build equity for their future.
Impact of the Cranston Housing Authority
The Cranston Housing Authority has made a significant impact on the lives of Rhode Island residents by providing safe and affordable housing options, as well as supportive services and resources to help families become self-sufficient. The CHA has helped thousands of low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities find stable housing and improve their quality of life.
According to the CHA’s 2019 Annual Report, the agency provided housing assistance to over 2,000 households in the City of Cranston. Additionally, the CHA provided over 400 families with supportive services such as education assistance, job training, and counseling.
One success story from the CHA’s programs is the story of Maria, a single mother who was struggling to make ends meet. With the help of the CHA’s Family Self-Sufficiency Program, Maria was able to obtain a degree in nursing and secure a job that allowed her to become financially independent.
Another success story is the story of John and his family, who were able to purchase their own home through the CHA’s Homeownership Program. With the assistance of the CHA, John was able to achieve his goal of homeownership and provide a stable and secure home for his family.
Conclusion
The Cranston Housing Authority is a vital resource for low-income individuals and families in Rhode Island. Through its various programs and services, the CHA provides safe and affordable housing options, as well as supportive services and resources to help families become self-sufficient. The CHA has made a significant impact in the lives of its residents and continues to be a beacon of hope for those struggling with housing insecurity.
