Public Housing Waitlist to Open After More Than Three Years

On Sept. 20, 2023, at 9 a.m. the Housing Authority of Washington County will be opening its public housing waitlist, offering 300 available slots for each of the two, three, and four-bedroom units. All qualifying families are urged to apply. The housing authority will be accepting applications on its online portal until Sept. 26, 2023, at 5 p.m. The last time the waitlist was opened was in February 2020.

The housing authority administers the Public Housing Program in the county and offers a range of publicly owned housing units situated in various community locations. Participating families contribute around 30% of their income towards their housing costs, with the housing authority covering the remaining amount. Current tenant rents, which are based solely on income, average $421 per month.

In preparation of the waitlist’s opening, Washington County Department of Housing Interim Director Michael Buonocore shared that, “Time and time again we are reminded in our community about how difficult it is to find affordable housing. That is why I am excited the Housing Authority of Washington County can open its Public Housing waitlist again after more than three years. These public homes are a lifeline for our community’s families who struggle to find stable housing.”

Public housing was established by the federal government to provide decent rental housing for eligible low-income families, the elderly and persons with disabilities. Housing authorities are funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. For more on Washington County’s application and frequently asked questions, visit its Public Housing webpage.

ABOUT HOUSING AUTHORITY OF WASHINGTON COUNTY: The authority has been providing and developing affordable housing opportunities for over 50 years. Today, the effort continues with the County’s Department of Housing Services, formed in 1992 to administer its housing activities and programs, and that of the County. The Housing Authority is a separate legal entity and contracts with the County to implement programs and services. Its mission is to provide a continuum of affordable housing options that promote community strength. 

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