The District of Columbia, Washington DC, has a much higher cost of living than around the rest of the country. It’s not only where the President of the country resides in the White House, but it is home to many executives, politicians, etc. There are many people who live there who may struggle financially due to the high cost of living, which is around 52% higher than the average around the country. The good news is that there are programs that offer housing assistance for ex-felons in Washington DC.
The programs that provide housing assistance for ex-felons in Washington DC will help ensure that basic needs are being met. They are generally available for those who have a low income and are a legal resident of the country. The programs are made possible through the federal government, as well as through the city government. There are also non-profit organizations that will provide housing assistance to help people in the community.
In rare instances, you may be able to get a loan to purchase a home through the government. While loans have to be paid back, the rest of the assistance that is given out does not need to be paid back. The financial assistance is considered a gift to help people in the community. You can apply for all the programs you feel qualified for, because there are no limits on how many you can get help from.
Programs Offering Housing Assistance for Ex-Felons in Washington DC
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – This is the largest organization in the country that provides housing assistance for those in need. HUD is an agency that is funded by the federal government. They do provide housing assistance for ex-felons in Washington DC, as well as for others. To qualify for assistance through HUD, you have to meet the low income guidelines and be a legal citizen. HUD can provide rental assistance, foreclosure avoidance, and help people locate affordable housing options in their area. They also help pay for necessary home repairs, such as for the heating unit. They will also provide weatherization services, which helps to lower monthly utility bills by making the home more energy efficient. HUD also has a Section 8 program, which provides those who qualify with a government owned unit to live in. To get more information about the programs provided through HUD, click here.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) – The USDA, which is a government agency, offers a rural development program. The main office for the program is located in Washington DC. The rural development program encourages people around the country to live in a rural area. Those who qualify for help will be able to get a home through their program by either getting a grant or low interest loan to purchase one. The program is open to ex-felons who are willing to live in a rural area. To get more information about the rural development program, click here.
DC Housing Authority – This housing authority covers the Washington DC area and is a government entity. They offer housing assistance for ex-felons in Washington DC, as well as for others in the area. The DC Housing Authority offers a family self-sufficiency program, which is a 5-7 year program. The goal of the program is to help those in it to become self sufficient and go on to have stable housing. Those in the program will receive case management to help them meet goals. They will also receive referrals to other helpful programs, financial literacy training, homeownership preparation, employment services, and more. Those who complete the program can receive up to $10,000 to use toward a mortgage to purchase a home. To get more information about the programs, click here.
Coordinated Assessment and Housing Placement – This government program offers transitional housing programs in the Washington DC area. The programs provide housing assistance for ex-felons in the area. Those who are in the programs will be able to get support and life skills, which will help them, be able to go on and get permanent housing. To get more information about the programs, click here.
Independent Living Program – This program in Washington DC provides housing assistance for those who are ages 18-24. They provide apartment style housing where the people can stay for up to 18 months. During the time people spend in the program, they have to maintain working or being enrolled in school and they have to save money. Once they are ready to leave the program, counselors help them with tools to be self sufficient. They also provide follow up services to help ensure that they will have stability. To get more information about the program, click here.
Coalition for the Homeless – This organization provides housing assistance for those who are homeless or at risk for becoming homeless. They offer several programs, including housing for men, housing for families with children, permanent supportive housing, emergency shelter services, and they offer employment training and assistance. To get more information about the programs offered, click here.
Community of Hope – This organization offers housing assistance for families, including focusing on stable housing options. Those in the program will be able to gain tools through programs that will help them become more self sufficient and be able to move into stable housing. Their goal is to help end homelessness in the area. To get more information, click here.
These programs can help ensure that basic housing needs are being met, as well as help people go on to have stable housing. In addition to these programs, it is a good idea to contact local churches and non-profit organizations. They often have programs that provide housing assistance for ex-felons in Washington DC, and can either provide access to them or give referrals to other programs that can help with your situation. The more programs you contact the better able you will be to get the help you need and ensure your needs are being met.
