Virginia is a state that has the average cost of living. While this may be helpful for many people, because they don’t have higher housing costs, there are still people who struggle financially at times. The good news is that there are programs that provide housing assistance for ex-felons in Virginia. The programs will help ensure that basic housing needs are being met.
The programs that provide housing assistance for ex-felons in Virginia are made possible through non-profit organizations, as well as the state and federal government. Each of these entities offers programs to help people in the community. While the requirements to qualify for the programs vary, most expect those applying to have a low income and be a legal resident of the state.
Most of the programs that provide financial help do not expect people to ever pay back. They offer the programs to reduce homelessness in the state and the help they give is considered a gift. There are rare exceptions to this, such as when the government provides someone with a low interest loan to purchase a home. There are no limits to how many programs you can apply for, so contact all those you feel qualified for.
Programs Offering Housing Assistance for Ex-Felons in Virginia
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This is a federal agency that is available around the country. Their mission is to reduce homelessness and help people find affordable housing options. They do provide housing assistance for ex-felons in Virginia, as well as others. There are numerous programs they have, and they are open to both renters and homeowners who meet the qualifications. They have a Section 8 program, which provides people with a government owned unit to live in. They also offer rental assistance programs, foreclosure avoidance, and help paying to have necessary home repairs done. They will also help you reduce your monthly utility bills by having weatherization services done, which makes the home more energy efficient. To qualify, you have to meet the low income requirements and be a legal citizen. To get more information about the programs offered, click here.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) – This federal government agency offers a rural development program that will provide housing assistance for ex-felons in Virginia. The program encourages people to live and buy rurally. Those who meet the qualifications may be able to receive a low interest loan or a grant that is used to live rurally, by either buying a home or having one built. To get more information about the rural development program in Virginia, click here.
Virginia Development Housing Authority – This is a state government agency that offers housing assistance. They can help people locate affordable housing options in their area of the state, provide access to public housing and Section 8 programs, provide a housing voucher and rental assistance program, and more. To get more information about the programs offered, click here.
Bridges to Independence – This organization helps people who are homeless or at risk for becoming homeless. The goal of the program is to help people be able to move into stable housing. They offer housing assistance, a homeless family shelter, workforce development, and more. To get additional information about the program offered by Bridges to Independence, click here.
New Hope Housing – This organization offers a permanent supportive housing program, as well as a temporary shelter program. The program is open to adults who need help with housing. Those in the program will also receive case management, employment assistance, housing assistance, community resources, advocacy, and more. To get more information about the programs offered, click here.
Virginia Supportive Housing – This is an organization that helps to prevent and alleviate homelessness. They do offer housing assistance for ex-felons in Virginia, as well as others. They not only help people to obtain housing, but also to keep housing. They provide shelters, food programs, medical services, and more. They provide people who qualify with rental assistance, and they build affordable housing units for people to live in. To get more information about their program, click here.
Good Shepherd Housing – This program is open to families who need help with housing. They provide housing assistance to those who have a low income. People who enter their program will be able to have access to affordable housing, rental assistance, and move on to stable housing. They also provide grants of up to $500 per family to help with rental assistance. The organization also offers emergency housing assistance. To get more information about the programs they offer, click here.
Safe Haven – This organization provides a transitional housing program. Those who are in the program will receive support services. The program also helps address mental illnesses and provide case management. The goal is for people to become self sufficient and move into stable housing. They can provide you with the guidance and tools to help make that happen. To get more information about Safe Haven, click here.
Help, Inc. – This organization focuses on helping people who live in the Hampton and Newport News areas. The program provides a shelter, including a transitional shelter and an emergency shelter, as well as case management that will lead people to moving into stable housing. They also provide people with health care, and the support they need to succeed. Those in the program can get help with clothing, food, laundry, and more. They provide the tools to help people get ahead. To get more information about the program offered, click here.
These programs will help ensure that you are able to meet your basic housing needs. There are additional programs located in most cities in the state. Contact your local churches and non-profit organizations to see if they offer helpful programs or if they can provide you a referral to a place that offers housing assistance for ex-felons in Virginia. The more places that you contact, the better able you will be to get the help needed and ensure your housing needs will be met.
