Auburn Forward Winter 2022
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - Cover
Auburn Forward
Winter 2022
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - From the CEO
Sharon N. Tolbert, Chief Executive Officer
Welcome to the Winter 2022 edition of the Auburn Forward! I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
2021 was an eventful year as we navigated through the "new normal" associated with COVID19, but I'm grateful we found some level of relief compared to 2020. 2021 showed me how fortunate I am to work with a team that refuses to give anything less than 110%. Despite our challenges faced as a result of the pandemic, I commend our staff for their hard work, tenacity, and commitment in carrying out their job functions. And most importantly, working as a team!
The Auburn Housing Authority's (AHA) team rallied beside each other as we worked through barriers associated with COVID19 coupled with organizational restructuring, which involved hiring and training new staff and most times, being short-staffed. Kudos to everyone who selflessly put their titles aside, rolled up their sleeves, and did what needed to be done to get the job done. This level of commitment did not go unnoticed. As a result, many employees were promoted and we added new professionals to our team.
I also want to thank our community partners for their continued support. Your generosity allows AHA to offer and provide valuable services to our families.
I'm grateful to AHA's Board of Commissioners for your confidence in allowing me to continue to serve as CEO of AHA and its managed agencies.
As always, I desire that you find the Winter 2022 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!
Let's charge forward in 2022 with the expectation of better days to come. Wishing everyone a safe, healthy, and prosperous 2022!
Bountiful Blessings,
Sharon N. Tolbert, CEO
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - 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,
ChairpersonNolan Torbert, Sr.,
Vice ChairpersonRene Waldrop,
CommissionerMarguerite White,
CommissionerNot Pictured Deborah Hand,
Resident Commissioner
AHA Board Meetings
Date: March 29, April 26, May 31, June 28, July 26, Aug 30
Time: 12:30 pm (CST)Join Zoom Meeting
Zoom Link available via AHA website calendar.Meeting ID: 923 7484 6739
Passcode: 061621
Number: 1-312-626-6799The date, time, and location are subject change.
We'd like to send a special congratulations to our Vice-Chairperson, Nolan Torbert, Sr., for being a Lamplighter Awards recipient presented by Mayor Ron Anders and for his unwavering support for the Auburn community.
Board of Commissioner's 2021 Highlights
In 2021, the Board of Commissioners ratified new policies and revised existing policies to meet the needs of the Auburn Housing Authority and to comply with program regulations. Specifically, the Board authorized utilizing HUD COVID waivers which provided administrative flexibilities and relief to public housing agencies in response to the COVID19 national emergency. The Board approved developing various local and state partnerships to accomplish AHA's goals and objectives along with developing strategies to expand affordable housing opportunities for low-income families in Auburn.
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - 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
2021 Onsite Farmers Market & Food Pantry Highlights
To assist families during the Thanksgiving holidays, the ACDC partnered with the Food Bank to sponsor an onsite Farmer's Market at the Ridgecrest site on November 19th that provided fresh produce to 142 families. A Farmer's Market was also held at the Boykin Community Center on December 17th which benefitted 161 families. The Farmer's Market was funded through the City of Auburn's CDBG program. Special thank you to Vice President Marguerite White for volunteering at the Farmer's Market event on November 19th!
The ACDC operates a Food Pantry at Boykin Community Street located at 400 Boykin Street. In 2021, the Food Pantry averaged 60 visits and distributed approximately 2,400lbs of food a month.
The ACDC would like to thank the Food Bank and the City of Auburn for their partnership in assisting ACDC's efforts in addressing food insecurities for families in Auburn.
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - Farmer's Market & Food Pantry Highlights
Beat Bama Food Drive
AHA contributed 116lbs of food to Beat Bama Food Drive to support the Food Bank of East Alabama. AHA is lucky to have the Food Bank as one of its many great partners and is committed to supporting them all.
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - Human Resources & News
Careers
Current Openings
- Maintenance Mechanic Assistant (LaFayette HA Site)
Employee Benefits:
BCBS medical benefits
BCBS dental benefits
Group life insurance
State retirement
Supplemental insuranceAnnual leave
Sick leave
Paid holidays
Four-day work week (Monday - Thursday)Visit www.auburnhousingauth.org/careers for job descriptions.
Staff Directory
Sandra Sanders Executive Admin Assistant 237 ssanders@auburnhousingauth.org Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Wendy Cochran Chief Operating Officer 247 wcochran@auburnhousingauth.org Shannon Walters HCV Manager 221 sbarrios@auburnhousingauth.org Natasha Hall HCV Caseworker III 267 nhall@auburnhousingauth.org Charlotte Bowen HCV Caseworker II 224 cbowen@auburnhousingauth.org Stephine Carter HCV Caseworker I 217 scarter@auburnhousingauth.org Rachel Harris Family Self Sufficiency Coordinator 259 rharris@auburnhousingauth.org Multi-Family Housing (MFH) Laura Squiers MFH Director 243 lsquiers@auburnhousingauth.org Dominique Moore Property Manager 242 dmoore@auburnhousingauth.org Greg Moore Regional Maintenance Manager 262 gmoore@auburnhousingauth.org Tina Rodriguez Cashier/Receptionist 212 trodriguez@aubrunhousingauth.org Finance Wendy Cochran Chief Operating Officer 247 wcochran@auburnhousingauth.org Richetta Stephens Procurement Officer 228 rstephens@auburnhousingauth.org Sylvia Impson Purchasing Clerk 255 simpson@auburnhousingauth.org Public Relations (PR) & Compliance AJ Harris Director of PR & Compliance 210 ajharris@auburnhousingauth.org Charlotte Mattox Resident Services Coordinator 230 cmattox@auburnhousingauth.org
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - Human Resources & News Continued
New Team Members
Stephine Carter
HCV Caseworker l (12.20.21, AHA site)
Marquindez Whitlow
Maintenance Mechanic
(12.16.21, AHA site)Tina Rodriquez
Cashier/Receptionist
(2.14.22, AHA site)Employee Promotions and Interim Changes
Wendy Cochran
Chief Operating Officer
(effective 12.16.21)Shannon Walters
HCV Manager
(effective 12.16.21)Charlotte Bowen
Interim HCV Caseworker ll
(effective 12.06.21)Natasha Hall
HCV Caseworker lll
(effective 1.01.22)Laura Squiers
Multifamily Housing Director
(effective 1.10.22)
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - 2021 Annual Employee Meeting
The Auburn Housing Authority had its Annual Employee Meeting at the Boykin Community Center on October 14, 2021.
The staff enjoyed lunch, and the CEO discussed COVID19 updates, employee recognitions, FYE2021 updates, FYE2022 goals and objectives, and more.
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - Employee Recognitions
Employee Spotlight: Demetrius Parhams
Demetrius was hired in September 2019 as a Maintenance Laborer. Demetrius' job entails assisting with maintenance issues, groundskeeping, maintaining the administrative building, and much more. You can often catch Demetrius walking around our properties or riding in the Dump Truck. Demetrius is a great asset to our team, and Auburn Housing is proud to have him.Congratulations to the following employees for their professional development accomplishments during 2021!
AJ Harris
Public Relations and Compliance Director
Master of Public Administration
Auburn University (08.07.21)
RAD Project-Based Voucher Specialist Certification (11.11.21)Charlotte Bowen
Interim HCV Caseworker ll
RAD PBV Specialist Certification (12.13.21)Rachel Harris, FSS Coordinator
FSS Certification (10.04.21)Natasha Hall, HCV Caseworker ll
HCV Specialist Certification (06.24.21)Not Pictured Sharon Tolbert, CEO
Graduated from PHADA/Rutgers University's Executive Director Education Program (05.27.21)
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - Covid19 Guidelines
AHA IS COMMITTED TO YOUR SAFETY AND OURS
Auburn Housing Authority (AHA) encourages all residents and participants to report positive COVID19 cases or exposure to COVID19 regarding members of their household. Reporting allows AHA staff to coordinate with local health officials, communicate possible COVID19 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 COVID19 cases or exposure to COVID19, 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. Payments can be made in-person, via the drop box located at the Ridgecrest Office, or online by visiting www.auburnhousingauth.org.
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - Covid19 Testing & Vaccine Information
Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order four free at-home COVID19 tests. The tests are completely free. Orders will usually ship in 7-12 days.
Order your tests by visiting www.covidtests.gov now, so you have them when you need them.
Also, the Biden administration is making 400 million N95 masks available for free in an effort to help prevent the massive surge in COVID cases due to the omicron variant.
The free masks will be available through pharmacies and community health centers across the country. Shipping on the masks will begin this week with the program fully operational by early February. A list of locations that will have the masks has not yet been announced. When this information is released we will update our website and social media accounts.
Together, COVID19 vaccination and following public health recommendations to protect yourself and others will offer the best protection from COVID19.
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - 2021 Christmas Luncheon
Before the holidays, our employees and Commissioners came together to enjoy good food, express appreciation, and engage in many laughs! We also had an opportunity to reflect on the past year and are incredibly grateful to be able to gather again.
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - National Night Out
AHA successfully hosted its Annual National Night Out on Monday, October 18th. This annual event is about enhancing the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing back a true sense of community. Furthermore, it provides an excellent opportunity to get police and neighbors together under positive circumstances and for Auburn citizens to learn about valuable local resources! Great time had by all!
View the full album on our website!
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - Sparkman Movie Night
Sparkman Community youth participated in an outdoor movie night in October, courtesy of the Lee County Democratic Club. Youth played games and brought their blankets to watch Jumanji: The Next Level on the big outdoor screen.
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - Landlord Corner
New Inspection Provider
Ozark Housing Development, Inc. (OHDI) was selected as the new inspection services provider for AHA. OHDI's mission of assuring decent, safe, and sanitary housing aligns perfectly with AHA.
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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.---
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 Winter 2022 - 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 processCurrently, 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 contact, Natasha Hall, at 334-821-2262 ext. 267 or by e-mail at nhall@auburnhousingauth.org.
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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 Winter 2022 - FSS Graduates
Congratulations to our FSS graduates!
The Family Self-Sufficiency Program (FSS) works! We couldn't be more proud of the following FSS graduates who truly made the program work for them.
Myrteila Welcher - Myrteila started the FSS program August 2017. Just four years later, she graduated in August 2021. When asked how the FSS program helped her, she replied, "It helped me to put goals into place and to know that one day I would want better. Knowing that someone cared (meaning that the people in the FSS program are going to call and check on you) - always sent things and information that can help better you." Due to her dedication and hard work, Myrteila received the money in her escrow account, which will come in handy as she welcomes a new baby to her family.
Nikesha Moss - Nikesha joined the FSS program in 2016 and graduated in September 2021. She has received her Medical Assistance Certification and is currently working for Rhema Health and Wellness LLC, located in Tuskegee, AL. When asked how the FSS program helped her, she replied, "The program helped me to understand the importance of growing and change. It changed my life. Learning more about the importance of my credit and working hard pays off." We are so proud of Nikesha as she will be able to use the money in her escrow account to continue her journey to self-sufficiency.
Alicia Warren - Alicia joined the FSS program in 2016 and graduated in October 2021. When asked how the program has helped her, she replied, "The FSS Program has taught me how to save and work toward my goals. The FSS Program has helped me in many ways, including debt reduction and savings." We are excited for Alicia to receive the money in her escrow account to help her reach her goals.
Are you interested in joining the Family Self-Sufficiency Program and pursuing more for you and your family? Then, please contact the FSS Coordinator, Rachel Harris, today via e-mail at rharris@auburnhousingauth.org or via phone at 334-821-2262 ext. 259.
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - HCV Programs Continued
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, HCV Caseworker III
Ph.: (334) 821-2262 ext. 267
Email: nhall@auburnhousingauth.orgRachel Harris, FSS Coordinator
Ph.: (334) 821-2262 ext. 259
Email: rharris@auburnhousingauth.org---
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, at 334-821-2262 ext. 259 or by email at 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 COVID19 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 Winter 2022 - Emergency Housing Vouchers
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 instabilityIf 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 Winter 2022 - 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 option 5.
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Project-Based Voucher Case Management
Project-Based Voucher case management services are now being administered in-house. If you have questions or require information, please contact Charlotte Bowen, Interim HCV Caseworker ll (PBV) at (334) 821-2262 ext. 224 or cbowen@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 AHA.
-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 option 5, or contact the caseworker assigned to your specific area of concern or voucher program.
Stephine Carter - Application & General Inquiries
Ext. 217 or by email at scarter@auburnhousingauth.org
Charlotte Bowen - Project-Based Vouchers (PBV)
Ext. 224 or by email at cbowen@auburnhousingauth.orgNatasha Hall - Tenant-Based Vouchers (TBV), Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV), Foster Youth Initiative (FYI), Veteran Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH), and Mainstream Vouchers
Ext. 267 or by email at nhall@auburnhusingauth.orgShannon Walters - HCV Manager
Ext. 221 or by email at sbarrios@auburnhousingauth.orgWe are here to serve you!
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - Resident Corner Continued
Rent Payment
1) As of July 1, 2021, cash payments are no longer accepted. If you place your payment in drop box, 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) 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 the 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 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.
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - More Resident Corner
Maintenance
For the safety of our residents and maintenance staff, effective immediately, residents will not be allowed in the vicinity of our maintenance staff while they are performing maintenance repairs inside of AHA units. Residents will be required to go into another room until all maintenance issues have been addressed. If you have any questions and/or concerns, please contact Director of Public Relations and Compliance AJ Harris via phone at 334-821-2262 ext. 210 or via e-mail at ajharris@auburnhousingauth.org.
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 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. 262For 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 TrainingTo 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
Goodwill Industries of the Southern Rivers and The Industrial Development Board of the City of Auburn have a list of businesses that are currently hiring in the Auburn, Alabama area.
View the list here:
www.goodwillsr.org/work---
Connect with us on Facebook @auburnhousing & Twitter @Auburn_housing
Auburn Forward Winter 2022 - Pantry Back Cover
Boykin Community Center Food Pantry is Open!
Providing free dry goods and other household items.
Open for Walk-ins at 400 Boykin St.
Tuesdays from 8-10 AM
Thursday from 2-4 PM
Schedule an appointment by calling 334.821.2262 ext. 208 or emailing foodpantry@auburnhousingauth.org.