Auburn Forward Fall 2021

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - Cover

Auburn Forward

Fall 2021

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - From the CEO

Sharon N. Tolbert, Chief Executive Officer

Welcome to the Fall 2021 edition of the Auburn Forward! I am pleased to say the Auburn Housing Authority (AHA) transitioned to Phase 3 of its COVID19 Re-Opening Plan in May 2021. We are open to the general public, staff has resumed their normal work schedule, and the Maintenance Division is responding to emergency and routine work orders.

We are grateful to be back in the office and to resume business as usual but we respectfully ask for your patience as we work through the backlog of administrative and maintenance requests as a result of the pandemic. Although we are open to the public, the following will be strictly enforced in an effort to protect our clients, staff, and the general public.

Face masks are required

Temperature checks

Limited capacity in the lobby

I apologize for the inconvenience our protocols may cause but the goal is to enforce safety measures in an effort to keep everyone safe as we continue to navigate through the global pandemic.

Despite the pandemic, AHA performed well during FYE2021 (July 2020 - June 2021)! AHA completed its FYE2021 Annual Action Plan End of the Year Report. The report reflect goals and objectives completed during FYE2021.

The complete report may be viewed at https://www.auburnhousingauth.org/aha-strategic-plan. Staff worked on implementing new programs to include but not limited to the HCV Homeownership Program, Foster to Independence and Mainstream Vouchers, MTW implementation, and numerous information technology initiatives. To top it off, FYE2021 average occupancy rate was at 96% (98% for March 2021 - June 2021) and work order completion rate was at 99%. I want to commend staff for their hard work and dedication during FYE2021!

AHA partnered with various organizations in carrying out affordable housing and community development programs. In an effort to expand affordable housing, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) allocated AHA forty-four Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV). AHA partnered with Alabama Rural Coalition for the Homeless (ARCH) to administer the EHVs. AHA received Community Development Block grant funds from the City of Auburn to operate its Food Pantry located at the Boykin Community Center. AHA worked with its co-developer to submit a 2021 9% Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) application in an effort to redevelop the Ridgecrest community. The City of Auburn's staff was instrumental during the application process. AHA was not awarded; however, plans are underway to apply in 2022. Likewise, numerous organizations assisted with various resident service programs. I want to thank all of our partners for your continued support!

Thank you to AHA's Commissioners for your commitment in serving on the Board of Commissioners! I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Board for your unwavering support and entrusting me to continue to serve as CEO of AHA and its managed agencies.

As always, it is my desire that you find the Fall 2021 Auburn Forward edition to be a useful tool to communicate upcoming, news, events, and more. For more information, please visit our website at www.auburnhousingauth.org and sign up for "News and More" to receive email and text notifications. Also, be sure to connect with us on social media!

Please stay safe,

Sharon N. Tolbert

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - Commissioner's Corner

AHA is governed by a five-member Board of Commissioners, representing a cross section of the community and appointed by the Mayor of the City of Auburn. One member must be a resident of an AHA property or program.

The Commissioners are responsible for overseeing the fiscal management of the agency and approving policies. Board members also appoint a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to administer the daily affairs of the housing authority.

Board meetings are held at noon on the last Tuesday of each month. The meeting date is subject to change.

Robert Smith,
Chairperson

Nolan Torbert, Sr.,
Vice Chairperson

Rene Waldrop,
Commissioner

Marguerite White,
Commissioner

Not Pictured Deborah Hand,
Resident Commissioner

Auburn Housing Authority Board Meetings
Date: October 26, and November 30, 2021
Time: 12:00 pm (CST)

Location: The Board of Commissioners will meet onsite at 931 Booker Street, Auburn, AL. However, due to complying with social distancing as a result of COVD-19, the meeting will be open to the general public via conference call. Please see the conference call meeting information below.

Conference Call Information:
Number: (267) 807-9601
Access Code: 311-546

The date/time are subject to change

Board of Commissioner's 2021 Annual Meeting Update

During the Auburn Housing Authority's Annual Board Meeting held on June 29, 2021 , Robert Smith was re-elected Chairperson and Nolan Torbert was re-elected Vice Chairperson. Both will serve in their respective positions July 1, 2021 - June 30, 2022. The Board also approved the fiscal year beginning (FYB) 2021 operating budgets for the Business Activity, HCV Program, and AHA Development LLC. Various policy revisions, grant awards, FYB2020 budget adjustments, and other action items were also approved.

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - ACDC

Under Sharon Tolbert's leadership, the AHA Board of Commissioners approved the Auburn Community Development Corporation (ACDC) as a non-profit affiliate of the AHA on May 7, 2019.

ACDC's mission is "Empowering individuals and families by expanding affordable housing and economic opportunities in an effort to build vibrant neighborhoods and communities."

The ACDC has partnered with the City of Auburn to administer a Food Pantry at the Boykin Community Center. ACDC is also exploring affordable housing opportunities in an effort to expand housing for families in the Auburn community.

Sharon Tolbert, President

Marguerite White, Vice President

Rene Waldrop, Secretary/Treasurer

Robert Smith, Director

Nolan Torbert, Director

Not Pictured Deborah Hand, Director

Auburn Community Development Corp. Board Meetings
Date: October 26, and November 30, 2021
Time: 1:00 pm (CST)
(Immediately following AHA Board meeting.)

Location: The Board of Commissioners will meet onsite at 931 Booker Street, Auburn, AL. However, due to complying with social distancing as a result of COVD-19, the meeting will be open to the general public via conference call. Please see the conference call meeting information below.

Conference Call Information:
Number: (267) 807-9601
Access Code: 311-546

The date/time are subject to change.

ACDC Updates

The ACDC would like to express its appreciation to the City of Auburn for its CDBG grant awards to fund the Food Pantry located at the Boykin Community Center. The Food Pantry is open to the public on Tuesdays (8am - 10am) and Thursdays (2pm -4pm).

In an effort to expand affordable housing opportunities, the ACDC submitted a Letter of Interest to purchase a 64-unit multifamily housing development in Auburn; however, ACDC was not awarded the bid. ACDC will continue to explore other affordable housing opportunities.

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - Human Resources & News

Staff Directory

Sandra Sanders Executive Admin Assistant 237 ssanders@auburnhousingauth.org

Shannon Walters Interim HCV Manager 221 sbarrios@auburnhousingauth.org

Natasha Hall Tenant Based Voucher (TBV) Caseworker 267 nhall@auburnhousingauth.org

Rachel Harris Family Self Sufficiency Coordinator 224 rharris@auburnhousingauth.org

Nan McKay & Associates
Project Based Voucher (PBV) Caseworker
334-456-38111 ahapbv@auburnhousingauth.org

Charlotte Bowen Cashier/Receptionist 212 cbowen@auburnhousingauth.org

Dominique Moore Property Manager 242 dmoore@auburnhousingauth.org

Greg Moore Regional Maintenance Manager 262 gmoore@auburnhousingauth.org

Richetta Stephens Procurement Officer 228 rstephens@auburnhousingauth.org

Sylvia Impson Purchasing Clerk 255 simpson@auburnhousingauth.org

Charlotte Mattox Resident Services Coordinator 230 cmattox@auburnhousingauth.org

Employee News & Interim Changes

New Staff

Charlotte Bowen
Receptionist/Cashier
(06.09.21 AHA site)

Cole Worthy
Maintenance Mechanic
(06.14.21 AHA site)

Rashaad Moore
Maintenance Mechanic
Assistant (07.19.21 LHA site)

Christina Williamson
Property Manager
(09.30.21 LHA site)

Bonnie Morgan
Receptionist/Cashier retired May 1st after 18 ½ years of service

Anniversary
Sylvia Impson 5-year Anniversary (07.14.21 AHA site)

Promotions
Greg Moore, Regional Maintenance Manager (effective 09.08.21)
Harvey Maddox, Maintenance Mechanic (effective 09.20.21)

Interim Changes
Wendy Cochran, Interim Chief Operating Officer (effective 06.09.21)
Shannon Walters, Interim HCV Manager (effective 06.17.21)
Laura Squiers, Interim Multi-Family Housing Director (effective 07.01.21

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - Careers & Procurement

Current Openings

Maintenance Mechanic (AHA)

Employee Benefits:

BCBS Medical Benefits

BCBS Dental Benefits

Group Life Insurance

State Retirement

Supplemental Insurance

Annual leave

Sick leave

Paid holidays

Four-day work week (Monday - Thursday)

Visit www.auburnhousingauth.org/careers for job descriptions.

E-Procurement Process

To improve our communication with our vendors, reduce administrative costs, and streamline our procurement process, AHA conducts most of its competitive solicitations on the e-Procurement Marketplace site. Please be advised that AHA absorbs all costs for using this Marketplace. Therefore, your firm incurs no additional charges to use this Marketplace site to respond to a published procurement solicitation. If you are a vendor and are interested in partnering with AHA, please complete the sign-up process outlined below. Once you are a registered vendor on the Marketplace site, you will receive notifications of any new bid opportunities as they occur.

To take part in the e-procurement process, please follow these instructions:

Visit ha.economicengine.com (no "www").

Registered Users - Click on the "login" button on the upper left side

Non registered Users - Click on the "Sign up as a Vendor" button in the lower-left side of the screen and follow the listed directions to register.

Select - Auburn Housing Authority as your Agency.

If you have any problems accessing or registering on the Marketplace, please contact their customer support at (866) 526-9266.

Benefits of utilizing e-Procurement include:

Automatic notification of bid opportunities

The ability to download procurement documents

Automatic notification of addenda

Access to procurement

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - COVID-19 Guidelines

AHA IS COMMITTED TO YOUR SAFETY AND OURS

Auburn Housing Authority (AHA) encourages all residents and participants to report positive Covid-19 cases or exposure to Covid-19 regarding members of their household. Reporting allows AHA staff to coordinate with local health officials, communicate possible COVID-19 exposure, and provide any needed resources and assistance. AHA will maintain confidentiality as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Privacy Act and not disclose any names, apartment numbers, and other personally identifiable information. To report or ask questions concerning reporting positive Covid-19 cases or exposure to Covid-19, contact AJ Harris, Director of Public Relations & Compliance, via phone at 334-821-2262 ext. 210 or via e-mail at ajharris@auburnhousingauth.org.

Please note before entering our offices:

Masks are required to be worn at all times

Temperature Checks are required for entry

Lobby seating capacity is limited to three seats

The front door will remain unlocked until the lobby seating capacity is reached. If the door is locked, call the office at 334-821-2262 ext. 212 to sign in and wait in your vehicle.

If you are experiencing any of the following, please refrain from entering:

Have been diagnosed with/tested positive for COVID-19, or currently awaiting test results relating to a suspected coronavirus (COVID-19) diagnosis,

Have signs/symptoms of a Covid-19 infection such as fever (>100.4 F), loss of taste and/or smell, fatigue, cough, shortness of breath, body aches, or sore throat

Came into close contact (within 6 feet for greater than 15 minutes) with someone who has a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis in the past 14 days?

You can make an in-person or virtual meeting appointment by contacting the Multi-Family Housing Department at 334-821-2262 ext. 242 or the Housing Choice Voucher Department at 334-821-2262 ext. 217. Payments can be made in-person, via the drop box located at the Ridgecrest Office, or online by visiting auburnhousingauth.org.

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - Covid-19 Testing & Vaccine Information

Previously our agencies partnered with East Alabama Medical Center to host multiple Pfizer vaccination clinics for our staff, residents, and anyone age 16+ in the local community!

Getting vaccinated is one of many steps you can take to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. Protection from COVID-19 is critically important because, for some people, it can cause severe illness or death.

Stopping a pandemic requires using all the tools available. Vaccines work with your immune system, so your body will be ready to fight the virus if you are exposed. Other steps, like masks and social distancing, help reduce your chance of being exposed to the virus or spreading it to others.

Together, COVID-19 vaccination and following public health recommendations to protect yourself and others will offer the best protection from COVID-19.

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - Food Pantry

Boykin Center Food Pantry Open!

Providing dry goods and other household items.

The pantry is open for walk-ins on Tuesdays from 8-10 a.m. and Thursdays from 2-4 p.m.

You can schedule an appointment by contacting Charlotte Mattox at 334-821-2262, ext. 230. The Boykin Community Center is located at 400 Boykin St.

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - Wonderful Wednesday

Auburn Housing Authority has returned to hosting Wonderful Wednesday an event designed for today's active seniors to gather, learn, and enjoy free activities. One of our recent events featured singer and guitarist, Bill King!

If you're 60+ we'd love to have you join us at our next Wonderful Wednesday events scheduled for
October 6th and 20th from 1:00 - 4:00 pm at the Porter Community Center!

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - Thank You Volunteers

Volunteers play a vital part in allowing AHA to serve our residents. We appreciate all of the organizations and individuals that volunteer their time to help our residents.

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - Talk With Us Tuesdays

Talk With Us Tuesdays in October!
Join us for a variety of classes this October! View the workshop schedule below and contact Resident Services Coordinator, Charlotte Mattox at 334-821-2262 ext. 230 for more information!

Mask required for all in-person events!

How Important is Life Insurance? (In-Person & Zoom)

October 5th, 2:00pm - Meeting ID: 845 8387 6355

Join Ebony Vines of Lincoln Heritage Insurance as she discusses the benefits of having life insurance, the risks of not having it, and how it does not cost a fortune to get quality life insurance coverage. Join Ebony to find out how you can access the benefits of an affordable life insurance plan.

Porter Community Center (415 White Street, Auburn, AL)

Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program Meeting (Zoom)

October 12th, 2:00pm - Meeting ID: 895 0293 4795

Join Rachel Harris, FSS Coordinator, as she discusses the benefits of the FSS program. The FSS program aims to help HUD-assisted families increase their income by connecting participants with resources in the community while depositing money into an escrow savings account. The FSS program is available to PBV & TBV program participants. Join Rachel to hear about FSS participant success stories and the benefits of joining the program.

Domestic Violence Intervention Program (In-Person & Zoom)

October 26th, 2:00pm - Meeting ID: 836 0023 8483

Join Zenene Humphrey Davis of the Domestic Violence Intervention Center, as she discusses the programs and services offered by the Domestic Violence Intervention Center. The Domestic Violence Intervention Center provides a 24-Hour Hotline, Emergency Shelter, Case Management, Therapy, Support Groups, Transportation, and much more at no charge to survivors of domestic violence. Join Zenene to hear her and other success stories from individuals who utilized the Domestic Violence Intervention Program.

Porter Community Center (415 White Street, Auburn, AL)

Use the link below to follow us on Facebook for regular calendar updates, resident news, and community resources!

https://www.facebook.com/AuburnHousing

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - 2021 AAHRA Conference

Staff and Commissioners attended the 2021 Alabama Association of Housing and Redevelopment Authorities (AAHRA) Conference in Sandestin, FL, on August 16 - 18. Commissioners attended training sessions on Commissioner's role, succession planning, strategic planning, and more. Staff participated in various training sessions to include but are not limited to Fair Housing, finance, crime prevention, HUD PHA Plans, and more. All conference attendees thoroughly enjoyed the Scholarship Dinner and Awards Banquet. The Authority received the Newsletter of the Year Award (medium category), and 11 youth received a medal for participating in the "What Home Means to Me" Poster Contests. In addition, Sharon Tolbert, CEO, received The Trailblazer Award.

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - AAHRA Poster Contest

Javeon Reese
Kindergarten

Ian Owens
1st Grade

Kane Willis
1st Grade

Janyah Robinson
2nd Grade

Kelvin Jackson Jr.
2nd Grade

Kardaren Chaney
3rd Grade

Crys'asia Rowell
4th Grade

Justin Marshall Jr.
6th Grade

Jataveon Robinson
6th Grade

Chris'iah Briscoe
8th Grade

LaPrincess Martin
8th Grade

AHA provided posters and art supplies for residents to enter the "What Home Means to Me" Poster Contests. The 11 residents pictured participated and received medals for their entries.

AHA would like to say congratulations to all of the residents that participated.

We are proud of you!

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - Back to School Events

Auburn Housing Authority hosted Back-To-School events at their Drake, East Park, Moton, Ridgecrest, and Sparkman Communities. AHA provided supplies and pizza to school-age residents, and community partners came out to provide information regarding their programs. Our friends from the Auburn Police Department were out interacting with residents.

We want to thank all our community partners that participated in our Back-To-School events. A special thanks to Parkway Baptist Church, who provided backpacks with supplies and grilled hamburgers and hotdogs for our residents in the East Park community.

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - Feeding Program & Farmers Market

Sparkman Summer Feeding Program

Lakeview Baptist Church provided meals for our school-age residents in the Sparkman Community during June. We appreciate Lakeview Baptist Church's contribution to the residents of the Sparkman Community.

Ridgecrest Farmers Market

We appreciate the opportunity to partner with the Food Bank of East Alabama to offer an onsite Farmers Market for residents and the general public to access locally grown produce!

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - Football Schedules

Auburn Housing Authority

Football Schedules for SEC and Auburn High School

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - SERC Basketball Tournament

Auburn Housing Authority is organizing basketball teams and cheer squads to compete in the 2022 SERC-NAHRO MLK Basketball Tournament and Cheer competition held in Opelika, AL, January 14 - January 17, 2022.

Calling All Ballers & Cheerleaders!

Teams will compete in divisions 18 and under, 15 and under, or 12 and under.

To be Eligible:

You must be served by AHA (PBV or TBV) or a member of Auburn Boys and Girls Club

18 or younger as of January 14, 2022

Must be enrolled in school or an approved GED program

Have a C or better average or enrolled in a tutoring program

Cannot be a member of the Auburn City Schools' Basketball Team

If interested, please contact AJ Harris by phone at 334-821-2262 ext. 210 or by e-mail at ajharris@auburnhousingauth.org by October 28, 2021.

CDC Guidelines will be followed.

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - Landlord Corner

Auto-Rescheduling

A friendly reminder that McCright Inspection Company will automatically schedule a re-inspection for failed HQS inspections. Please review the letters for important information about dates and adverse actions taken for non-compliance.

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Address Change

If you move, remember to report your new address to our office in writing. Also, report changes in anticipated changes of ownership as soon as possible. You must advise us before you sell the property rented to a voucher holder. There is paperwork that must be done to adjust ownership and rental assistance.

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Lease Renewal

Landlords: If you are entering into a new lease at the annual renewal, you must provide a copy of the new proposed lease prior to the tenant signing the lease. If you have questions about the program, don't guess, please call the Housing Choice Voucher Office Program (HCVP) at (334) 821-2262 ext. 217. Thank you for partnering with Auburn Housing Authority (AHA) to provide decent, safe, and sanitary housing for low-income families.

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Safe Communities

Do you know what to do if you suspect fraud or criminal activity occurring at an HCVP assisted home? You can do your part to help keep your community safe by using the link below to report fraudulent or criminal activity. www.auburnhousingauth.org/contact

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Domestic Violence

Did you know the HCVP has housing preferences for homeless families and victims of domestic violence? If you are being assisted by or receiving assistance from a homeless shelter and/or are a victim of domestic violence, you may qualify for additional points to be housed. The agency that is assisting you would only need to provide a letter verifying your need on their letterhead with a signature stating that you are being assisted by their agency. The letter needs to be faxed, mailed, or hand delivered by that agency to the HCVP office.

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Report Changes

Participants of the HCV Program are required to submit all changes in writing within 10 calendar days. These changes may include loss of employment, new employment, updated phone numbers and emails and change in student status. Landlords who are aware of an unauthorized individual residing in the home should contact the HCVP Department immediately. Updating household information is vital to keeping your HCVP participation in good standing. The voucher size is based on household composition. Families receive deductions for dependents. It is very important to keep this updated.

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Emergency Rental Assistance Program

LANDLORDS: Are some of your tenants behind on their rent?
Emergency Rental Assistance Alabama is here to help. COVID-19 has affected residents across the state. We have emergency funds available to help Alabama renters pay rent and utility bills (including past-due rent and utilities). Emergency Rental Assistance Alabama has emergency funds available to help Alabama renters pay rent and utility bills (including past due rent and utilities). Visit eraalabama.com to learn more or to apply.

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Landlord Incentive Program

The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program has developed a Landlord Incentive Program aimed at:

Supporting, retaining, and recruiting new Landlords to the HCV program
To increase the number of units available for HCV families to rent
To increase the lease-up success rates for vouchers issued
To increase the overall voucher utilization rate for the Auburn Housing Authority (AHA)
The HCV (Section 8) program has some exciting new incentives for Landlords to include the following.

Signing Bonus (New Landlord Incentive Payment)

$500 signing bonus will be available for Landlords that signs a new Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract with AHA allowing a Section 8 family to move into one of their available units. Landlords that have not contracted with AHA since January 2018 are eligible.

Re-Rent Bonus (Vacancy Payments)

Landlords are eligible for up to 2 months of vacancy rental payments for vacancies that occur between Section 8 participants. Payments are available to Landlords that re-rent to another Section 8 participant within 60 days of occupancy.

Rent now, Inspect later

Landlords are able to defer inspections by self-certifying the health and safety of their property, and allow tenants to move immediately. The AHA is required to inspect all Section 8 units. Landlords who elect to defer inspections will have their properties inspected by October 31, 2020.

Application Expenses

Financial assistance up to $25 may be paid directly to Landlords to cover application costs.

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - HCV Programs

Tenant-Based Vouchers (TBV)

Auburn Housing Authority's (AHA) Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Tenant Base Voucher (TBV) Program allows low-income families to rent quality housing in the private market via federal funds provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Through the HCV Program, AHA pays a portion of eligible families' rent each month directly to the property owner. Families can use their vouchers to rent a house or apartment in the private market throughout Lee County, with the exception of the city limits of Opelika, AL. You must contact Opelika Housing Authority for assistance in that area. Because there are more families who need rental assistance than there are funds available, AHA uses a waiting list to administer the program to eligible families.

Applicant families must meet the following eligibility requirements to qualify for the HCV Program:
• Meet HUD's definition of family
• Meet income limits specified by HUD
• Qualify on the basis of citizenship or eligible immigrant status
• Provide Social Security number
• Sign required consent forms
• Pass screening process

Currently, AHA's tenant-based voucher waiting list is closed. AHA will provide notice through a variety of media outlets when it reopens. To learn more call (334) 821-2262 ext. 267.

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Project-Based Vouchers (PBV)

PBV is similar to Tenant Base Vouchers. However, the differences between the two are PBV assistance is tied to the unit, and once HCV determines eligibility for the PBV, the applicant is then referred to the PBV landlord to determine if the applicant is suitable for tenancy. The waitlist is currently open for bedroom sizes 3-5.

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Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH)

The VASH program combines HUD's Housing Choice Voucher rental assistance for homeless Veterans with case management and clinical services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). VA provides these services for participating Veterans at VA medical centers (VAMCs), community-based outreach clinics (CBOCs), through VA contractors, or through other VA designated entities. If you are a Veteran and wish to utilize the VASH voucher, please contact the Central Alabama Health Care System (CAVHCS) at 334-727-0550 or 800-214-8387.

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Mainstream Vouchers

Mainstream vouchers assist non-elderly persons with disabilities. Aside from serving a special population, Mainstream vouchers are administered using the same rules as other Housing Choice Vouchers. Funding and financial reporting for Mainstream vouchers are separate from the regular tenant-based voucher program. AHA's Mainstream waiting list is closed. AHA will provide notice through a variety of media outlets when it reopens.

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Foster Youth to Independence Initiative (FYI)

HUD's FYI targets housing assistance to young people aging out of foster care and who are at extreme risk of experiencing homelessness. The initiative offers housing vouchers to local public housing authorities to prevent or end homelessness among young adults under the age of 25 who are, or have recently left, the foster care system without a home to go to. Eligible applicants must be referred to AHA by the Alabama Department of Human Resources. If you are a foster youth that is about to age out of foster care and wish to utilize the FYI voucher, please contact the Alabama Department of Human Resources at (334) 242-1310.

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - FSS Spotlight

Nikesha Moss

Nikesha knew that receiving housing assistance was just a stepping stone for her and her four children. When she joined the Family Self-Sufficiency Program in 2016, her goals were to provide for her family and achieve homeownership.

Fast-forward to 2021, she is providing not only for her family but also for her community. She has received her Medical Assistance Certification and is currently working for Rhema Health and Wellness LLC, located in Tuskegee, AL. She takes great pride in her work as the Medical Coordinator. Her primary role is coordinating events for Covid-19 vaccinations and testing. Nikesha, along with her colleagues, host these events in Macon, Barber, and Bullock counties.

Nikesha has four boys that she considers her greatest joy. Her two youngest are preparing to graduate high school and head off to college. She beams with pride when she talks about motivating one son to follow in her footsteps and pursue a profession in the medical field.

Nikesha's determination and dedication push her to achieve more. Through her participation in the FSS program, she has accrued money in her escrow savings account, which she hopes to use as a down payment for a new home. We are so proud of Nikesha and are looking forward to celebrating her as she finishes the program and starts the journey to homeownership.

If you are interested in joining the Family Self-Sufficiency Program and pursuing more for you and your family, please contact the
FSS Coordinator Rachel Harris at rharris@auburnhousingauth.org
or call 334-821-2262 EXT 224.

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - More HCV Programs

Homeownership Program

The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) homeownership program allows families that are assisted under the Tenant Base Voucher (TBV) program to use their voucher to buy a home and receive monthly assistance in meeting homeownership expenses.

The HCV homeownership program is available only to families that have been admitted to the TBV program. To participate in the HCV homeownership program, the HCV family must meet specific income and employment requirements (the employment requirement does not apply to elderly and disabled families), be a first-time homeowner as defined in the regulation, attend and satisfactorily complete the pre-assistance homeownership and housing counseling program required by AHA, and meet any additional eligibility requirements set by the AHA. If you are a current TBV participant and wish to utilize the homeownership program, please contact your caseworker.

Natasha Hall, TBV Caseworker
Ph.: (334) 821-2262 ext. 267
Email: nhall@auburnhousingauth.org

Rachel Harris, FSS Coordinator
Ph.: (334) 821-2262 ext. 224
Email: rharris@auburnhousingauth.org

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Family Self-Sufficiency Program (FSS)

The FSS program is a HUD workforce program offered to participant families. The goal of FSS is to assist participants to increase their income in order to decrease their reliance on housing subsidies. Because we recognize that true self-sufficiency means more than simply an increase in earned income, AHA's program focuses on all barriers.

The FSS Program provides participants with individualized case management, referrals to resources and services, educational workshops, and guidance in goal setting and achievement over a five-year period. The program is completely voluntary. If you are interested in the FSS program, please contact the FSS Coordinator.

Rachel Harris, FSS Coordinator
Ph.: (334) 821-2262 ext. 224
Email: rharris@auburnhousingauth.org

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Emergency Rental Assistance Program

During the coronavirus pandemic, millions of renters have struggled to make their monthly payments. If you're having trouble paying your rent, utilities, or other housing-related costs, rental assistance may be available to you. The Emergency Rental Assistance Alabama program was created to help renters cover their housing-related costs and stay in stable housing during the pandemic.

To qualify, you must have experienced financial hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic, meet local income requirements, and be behind on your rent. Visit eraalabama.com to learn more or to apply.

To Learn More About Our HCV Programs Visit:
https://www.auburnhousingauth.org/hcv-section8

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHVs)

Auburn Housing Authority has received 44 Emergency Housing Vouchers from the Department of Housing and Urban Development through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 (Public Law No: 117-2) as a relief to address the continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economic, public health, State and local government individuals, and local businesses.

Emergency Housing Vouchers are to assist the following individuals and families:

Homeless

At risk of homelessness

Fleeting, or attempting to flee, domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking, or
were recently homeless or have a high risk of housing instability

If you feel that you may qualify for this program or would like to find out additional information, please see the details below.

EHVs help individuals and families find housing and remain stably housed long-term. Our agency has partnered with Alabama Rural Coalition for the Homeless (ARCH) to determine which individuals and families will be eligible to receive an EHV.

How to Apply
To be eligible for an EHV, an individual or family must meet one of the eligibility categories:

Lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.

Has an income below 30 percent of median family income for the area as determined by HUD.

Reasonably believes that there is a threat of imminent harm in their current residence.

To apply, contact Sabrina Betts at ARCH by calling 334-273-0668, and when prompted, select option 2.

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - Resident Corner

Resident Notice

The Auburn Housing Authority's (AHA) mission is to provide safe, decent and affordable housing for families. The AHA's Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program is funded by the federal government and AHA must comply with the Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) regulations and AHA's internal policies and procedures. AHA encourages families to comply with the following requirements to maintain their housing assistance.

a. Comply with your annual recertification requirements and submit the requested information by the deadline.

b. Report all changes in income and household composition.

c. Comply with your landlord's dwelling lease.

d. Comply with all written requests that are submitted by the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Department and forward the requested information by the deadline.

Not complying with the requirements above may result in the termination of your assistance or eviction. The list above is not all inclusive.

If you have questions about your HCV assistance, please contact the HCV Department at (334) 821-2262 ext. 217.

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Project-Based Voucher Case Management

Nan McKay and Associates (NMA) provide case management services for Auburn Housing Authority's Project-Based Voucher (PBV) Program. NMA provides case management services for families that reside in the following communities:
AHA Development LLC (AHA's affiliate)
-Ridgecrest
-Drake
-Moton
-Sparkman
-East Park
-Porter

If you have questions about your assistance, you may contact NMA's Customer Service at (334) 456-3811 or ahapbv@auburnhousingauth.org.

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HCV Updates

Staff members are working to process interim for loss of wages and income decreases in the order received. Delays may occur. Please continue to report these changes by emailing your respective Caseworker.

-Participants are not required to report stimulus funding to LHA.

-However, you must request an extension before your voucher expires. Please contact nhall@auburnhousingauth.org with questions concerning your Tenant Base Voucher (TBV).

-All transfer requests and vacate notices from current participants are being reviewed. HCV staff will contact participants and landlords to determine the next steps on a case-by-case basis.

-Issuance of new vouchers will resume. Briefings will be conducted via phone. An appointment letter will be sent to applicants with instructions.

-Landlords payments will continue to be processed without interruption.

-Current participants are still required to report all household income and composition changes. Please send emails to the respective caseworker.

-Available units known to AHA are listed under the Locations tab at www.auburnhousingauth.org.

If you have any questions please contact the HCV Department at (334) 821-2262 ext. 217.

Nan Mckay (PBV Caseworker) - ahapbv@auburnhousingauth.org
Natasha Hall (HCV Caseworker) - nhall@auburnhousingauth.org

We are here to serve you.

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - Resident Corner Continued

Rent Payment

1) As of July 1, 2021, cash payments are no longer accepted. If you place your payment in dropbox, please pay by check or money order. You may also pay by debit/credit card in person or online at apps.auburnhousingauth.org/ .

2) Late fees have been reinstated beginning with September 2021 rent. Please remember rent is due on the 1st and late after the 6th. If the 6th falls on a holiday or weekend, you will have until the end of the following business day to pay without penalty.

3) The eviction moratorium will soon expire. If you have a prior balance, please contact the property manager to set up a repayment agreement. For those that submitted an Authorization Form for consideration in the Emergency Rental Assistance Alabama (ERAA) program, please be sure to check your email for directions from ERAA on completing your application.

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Rental Insurance

Residents are encouraged to obtain rental insurance. Rental insurance helps to protect your belongings after a covered loss.

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Smoking Policy

Smoking is NOT permitted inside the unit. See the Smoke-Free Policy that's included as an addendum to your lease for more information.

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Pet Policy

AHA Development LLC's Pet Policy is included within the Lease Addendum signed by all Residents. By signing, residents agreed to report all pets and pay deposits. Per the lease, AHA residents agree to:

Not to keep or allow dogs, cats, or any other animals or pets on the premises without the prior written consent of Landlord and in accordance with the Landlord's Pet Policy. Residents are only allowed to keep common household pets in their units subject to the execution of the pet policy of the Landlord and proper execution of the Lease addendum for pets. Resident agrees to comply with pet policy and violation of the pet rules, as outlined in the lease addendum, will be grounds for removal of the pet, fines, termination of pet owner's tenancy or both. Violation of this Paragraph shall be considered to be a serious violation of this lease;

If you have a pet and have not notified the property manager, do so immediately. Failure to comply can lead to financial penalties and/or eviction. To request a copy or questions concerning the AHA's Pet Policy, contact Dominique Moore via phone at 334-821-2262 ext. 242 or via e-mail at dmoore@auburnhousingauth.org.

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Maintenance

An emergency work order will be completed and mitigated within twenty-four (24) hours. If a situation is determined to not be an emergency, the resident will be informed that the request will be considered as "any other resident work order request". Normal work orders will be resolved within 3 business days.

Emergency Work Orders are when the situation constitutes a serious threat to the life, safety or health of resident(s) or staff; or the situation will cause serious damage to the property, property structure or systems if not repaired within twenty-four (24) hours.

Examples of a work order emergency are:
-Broken exterior door lock
-Fire
-Loss of power - mechanical failure
-Broken water line
-Loose or falling ceiling
-No A/C (when the outside temperature is 90 degrees or above)
-No Heat (when the outside temperature is less than 35 degrees)

Please call to request a work order:

Greg Moore
Regional Maintenance Manager
Phone: (334) 821-2262 ext 262

For Police and Fire Emergencies dial 911

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FREE Transportation Services Available for AHA Residents:

Need transportation to:
Job/Employment Training
Employment/Work
Drug Testing or Assessment Testing
Educational Courses for Job Training

To qualify for the Job Access & Reverse Commute Program:
You must be a current "low-income" resident of Auburn Housing Authority PBV or HCV and you must meet the requirements on the "Eligibility and Affirmation for TANF" form.

You may be able to qualify by a combination of the following three (3) criteria: your Size of Family Unit, Gross Monthly Income, and Gross Annual Income.

Residents who would like to receive FREE transportation assistance need to schedule an appointment with Charlotte Mattox to determine eligibility for this program by calling (334) 821-2262 ext. 230.

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Job Opportunities

Looking for a job? Goodwill Industries of the Southern Rivers has compiled a comprehensive list of businesses hiring in our area.

View the list here: https://www.goodwillsr.org/work

Find the perfect job for you and apply!

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Connect with us on Facebook @auburnhousing & Twitter @Auburn_housing

Auburn Forward Fall 2021 - National Night Out

Join us for Free Food, Community Resources, and lots of FUN!

National Night Out
October 18th
3-5 PM
931 Booker St., Auburn, AL

All Are Welcome!