2022 PHA Annual Plan final - Laserfiche WebLink

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C. Increase Housing Choice I . Continue to administer and promote the Homeownership Option Program (HOP) The OHCD continued to promote HOP to all eligible program applicants and participants. The HOP coordinator provided phone and a limited amount of in person informationals when needed to interested participants. The Hawai 'i Housing Planning Study, 2019 prepared by SMS Research and Marketing Services Inc., indicated that in this jurisdiction, an estimated 600 homeownership units is necessaryfor persons at 60 to 80 percent A&H. In July 2021, the OHCD adopted a policy to increase income limits for all applicants to include low-income (80% AMI). The OHCD's justification in doing so was recogni_ing that real estate was trending as a seller's market, thus significantly decreasing available rental units. The OHCD hopes that combined with lower mortgage rates, that this may increase the number of families assisted through HOP. Furthermore, the OHCD continued to connect program participants with local Self -Help Programs. The OHCD also inquired with administrators of these programs the possibility of implementing a waiting list preference which would allow current HCV participants who were also on their wailing list priorityfor selection. Discussion on whether a formal agreement is necessary. The OHCD is also exploring the adoption and implementation of a down payment assistance program utilizing HOMEfinds to fill eligibility gaps. The OHCD has also had discussions with HUD- VASH coordinators to explore VA home loans combined with Homeownership as an alternative for permanent housing. Develop and promote working partnerships with landlords around Hawaii island to encourage participation with the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program The OHCD has hired a dedicated landlord liaison who is focused on maintaining its current landlord partnerships by keeping lines of communication open, keeping them informed of any policy changes, improving efficiency through streamlined processes. and providing a high level of standards and professionalism through customer service. This position will also be responsible for increasing owner/agent participation byfostering neiv relationships, developing, and implementing innovative ways to market the need for partnerships. The OHCD also implements continuing education and guidance on regulations and provides the status of our organisation through regular housing specialist workshops 3. Research and explore for additional funding sources for landlord incentive programs During This fiscal year, the OHCD implemented an Emergency Landlord Incentive pilot program to increase landlord participation. Gift cards to local hardivare stores ivere distributed to qualified new, returning landlords, and landlords who extended initial lease term periods. Additionally, the OHCD hired a fiull-time Landlord Liaison to provide focused and consistent customer service to landlords that participate or have interest in the HCV program. D. Promote Self -Sufficiency 1. Increase the number of families enrolled in the Family Self -Sufficiency (FSS) Program by promoting program participation at new admission, annual re -exams and by displaying visual displays in interviewing cubicles and the lobby area. increase the number offamilies enrolled in the Family Self -Sufficiency (FSS) program (as of March 16, 2022). Current Participant Households: 59 as of 31812022 Total Individual Participants: 322 Current 59 and Former 263 Households by Income Level: 30% or < 16 31% to 50% 10 51% to 80% 19 81%10100% 14 Total Escrow Dollars Paid $38,144 (11112021-1213112021) The OHCD will continue its efforts to provide monthly and individual informational meetings in East and West Hawaii. These meetings provide eligible individuals the necessary information about the benefits of the FSS and HOP Programs. Enrollment activities will include efforts to educate PHA staff to increase promotion and referrals during appointments and at orientation presentations. 2. Increase and promote awareness of the American Job Center to new and current participants HCV and FSS participants are continuously encouraged to seek assistance from the American Job Center. The OHCD continues to work with staff from the American Job Center to search for additional opportunities to connect participants to new and expanding employment options. The OHCD also began referring applicants and participants to Haivai'i County's newly established Financial Empowerment Center (FEC), through a partnership between the national nonprofit Cities for Financial Empowerment Fund, Hawai'i Community Foundation, Haivaiian Community Assets (HCA), and Hcnvai'i First Federal Credit Union (HFFCU). Centers offer free professional, one-on-one financial counseling and coaching as a public service. E. Seek partnerships that will further the goal of affordable housing opportunities Continue to maintain partnerships with community, Federal, and State agencies Page 4 of form HUD -50075 -HCV (03/31/2024)