HHousing has been a major political and social topic of discussion in the the United States of America for as long as anyone can remember and many Americans need extra help right now to stay off the streets.
For those in California who cannot afford long-term housing, there is a specific program in place, the Section 8 Housing Programs.
The goal is to help low-income families find housing that matches their limited financial means. It is operated by the California Public Housing Authority (PHA) which has over 100 offices across the state.
It is funded by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Funding comes in the form of vouchers that are distributed to the homeowner or landlord directly on behalf of the applicant.
How do you qualify?
Eligible applicants must be citizens of the United States of America or equivalent. Acceptance is based on both family size and the family’s total gross annual income. Generally, the income cannot exceed 50% of the median income of the region.
Citizens with small children, caring for the elderly, pregnant or disabled often receive preferential consideration. Those with a criminal record are not automatically disqualified, as approvals are determined on a case-by-case basis.
A useful feature of the program for applicants is that there are no restrictions on the type of property that can be inhabited. California’s pHA has a database of eligible properties, but people don’t have to choose from their list.
Any property where an owner is willing to accept the vouchers is eligible.