With the Section 8 Housing Voucher Program so backed up, and vouchers sometimes taking years to get issued, there are some non-profits who have stepped in to help fill the gaps and get people the housing they need much faster. Nonprofits work hard to help people find affordable housing. And for people who can’t afford to wait any longer, these programs can be a lifeline for them and their families
Here’s what these nonprofits usually do:
- Build and manage low-cost rental homes and homes for people to buy.
- Offer help with budgeting and understanding money.
- Speak up for fair housing rules and money for housing programs.
- Offer support such as training or counseling to help individuals maintain their homes.
Knowing how these nonprofits work can help you find the right one to get the help you need!
Top Nonprofits That Help with Housing
Various organizations throughout the nation strive to ensure that everyone has access to housing. We’ve found the top 5 that are making a difference in housing across the nation. Keep in mind, there may be some which are local and specific to you though, so after you read this article, see what local resources may be available. Here’s the most notable charities providing housing right now:
1. Family Promise
What They Do: Family Promise assists families lacking shelter. They have a presence in more than 200 communities across 43 states.
How They Help: They offer accommodation, meals, and additional support such as teaching skills and aiding in securing permanent housing. Their efforts involve collaborating with churches and volunteers.
Who They Help: Each year Family Promise aids over 125,000 individuals in finding a lasting residence. They are by far the biggest housing charity making the most impact in the United States!
How to Get Help: To check for available assistance you can visit the Family Promise website to locate an affiliate near you.
2. Covenant House
What They Do: Covenant House supports homeless and trafficked young people in cities across six countries.
How They Help: They offer shelter, food, medical aid, and mental health services. Additionally, they provide assistance with education, job training, and securing housing.
Who They Help: Covenant House serves more than 2,000 youth nightly. Since their inception, they have reached out to over 1.5 million individuals.
How to Get Help: Young individuals in need can visit the Covenant Houses website or go to one of their centers for help.
3. StandUp for Kids
What They Do: StandUp for Kids is a national group that helps homeless youth and those at risk.
How They Help: They provide outreach, mentoring, educational support, and housing help. They focus on life skills to help young people become self-sufficient.
Who They Help: StandUp for Kids works in 18 cities across 11 states, offering food, support, and housing help to thousands of young people each year.
How to Get Help: You can find local programs on their website to see if they can help.
4. National Alliance to End Homelessness
What They Do: This group does not offer direct services but focuses on ending homelessness by shaping policies and providing support to local organizations.
How They Help: They provide research, training, and advocacy for better housing laws and more funds for homeless services.
How to Get Help: While you can’t get direct services from them, you can find helpful information and referrals on their website.
5. Global Refuge (Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service)
What They Do: Global Refuge helps immigrants and refugees, including those at risk of homelessness, find stable housing and settle into new communities.
How They Help: They offer resettlement services, housing assistance, and legal support.
Who They Help: They have helped more than 500,000 immigrants and refugees since 1939.
How to Get Help: Contact their local offices or visit their website to learn about the programs in your area.
How Housing Charities Help Fight Homelessness
Housing charities play a big role in fighting homelessness. They provide emergency housing for people who need a place to stay right away, and they also help with longer-term solutions, like finding affordable housing.
These charities offer services like mental health support, job training, and education to help people keep their homes. They also work to change laws and rules to make housing more affordable for everyone.
Housing charities are on the front lines, providing both immediate help and long-term solutions.
How to Find Affordable Rentals Through Nonprofits
Lots of nonprofit organizations have and oversee affordable rental housing. This proves to be particularly beneficial when government initiatives such as Section 8 face delays in processing applications.
Getting one of these rental units typically entails meeting certain requirements, such as income thresholds or household size. Every nonprofit has its own rules.
Steps to Get Affordable Rentals:
- Find local nonprofits that offer affordable rentals.
- Learn about the requirements for each nonprofit.
- Gather documents like proof of income.
- Apply to the rental programs.
- Follow up and provide any extra information they ask for.
Be patient and keep trying – it can take time, but it’s worth it to find a safe, affordable home.
Navigating Affordable Housing Opportunities
There are different types of affordable housing, like public housing, Section 8 vouchers, and low-income housing tax credits. Each has its own rules and application process.
Steps to Find Affordable Housing:
- Check which types of affordable housing are available in your area.
- Understand the rules for each type.
- Gather the documents you need, like proof of income and where you live.
- Apply for the program that works best for you.
- Stay in touch and respond quickly to any requests.
Nonprofits often offer housing counseling to help guide you through these options.
The Importance of Accessible Homes in the Community
Accessible homes are important for people with disabilities and the elderly, helping them live independently and feel part of the community.
Nonprofits help by making sure homes meet accessibility standards and by working with builders, landlords, and local governments. They also provide support to those looking for accessible housing.
Accessible and affordable housing makes neighborhoods safer and happier!
Dealing with the Emotional Stress of Housing Instability
Not knowing where you’ll live next can be very stressful. Nonprofits understand this and offer emotional support, like counseling, to help people cope.
These services can make a big difference for people facing housing instability, giving them a place to share their worries and find hope.
Resources for Social Workers and Clients
Nonprofits provide lots of resources to help social workers and clients navigate the world of affordable housing, such as:
- Lists of affordable housing options.
- Training materials to help understand housing rules.
- Financial education to help people plan for homeownership.
- Personalized plans for finding housing.
- Legal help.
These tools help people take control and find the housing they need.
Advocacy and Policy Work in Affordable Housing
Nonprofits often work to change housing laws and policies to create more affordable housing. They advocate for the rights of low-income families and work to raise awareness about housing issues.
Advocacy and policy work help ensure that everyone’s voice is heard, and more people get access to affordable housing.
If you need help finding affordable housing, reach out to these nonprofits directly through their websites. They’re here to help!