Housing Assistance Council

¡Feliz Mes de la Herencia Hispana! 🎉 Today marks the beginning of National Hispanic Heritage Month—a time to celebrate the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities across the United States. At HAC, we honor the work of Hispanic rural leaders, advocates, and communities who have been at the forefront of building affordable, equitable housing in rural America. 🏡From farmworker housing to rural community development, their impact is immeasurable. Throughout the month, we will be spotlighting stories of resilience, innovation, and success in Hispanic communities across the country. Join us in celebrating, and stay tuned for inspiring stories and important discussions on how we can continue to support these communities in their pursuit of affordable housing and sustainable futures. #RuralHome

For this week’s #LoanFundFriday, we're proud to spotlight the impactful partnership between Housing Assistance Council (HAC) and Self-Help Enterprises (SHE)! 🏡🤝 HAC has been a longtime supporter of SHE’s mission to create affordable housing solutions in rural California. Through HAC’s loan fund, we’ve provided critical financing that enables SHE to continue their work in building and rehabilitating homes for low-income families. With loans totaling over $12 million from HAC, SHE has been able to leverage this support to develop more than 300 affordable homes and provide vital housing services to rural communities. This funding has been key to not only increasing homeownership but also stabilizing rental housing for families in need. HAC is committed to empowering organizations like SHE by providing the financing tools they need to strengthen rural communities and build a brighter future for families across the region. #RuralHome

-Continuing resolution likely to fund government -USDA moves funds to Section 502 direct mortgage loans and Section 504 repair grants -HUD revises manufactured housing code -Incomes rose and poverty fell slightly from 2022 to 2023 -Tribes’ climate response needs not being met And more in this week's HAC News: https://loom.ly/l4hoV5k

For over 50 years, the Community Action Commission of Fayette County (CAC) has been fighting poverty in rural Ohio. When CAC wanted to expand its housing counseling program and become HUD-certified, they reached out to HAC for support. Our Housing Specialists guided them through the certification process, provided training materials, and helped develop their new HUD Counseling Program. Today, CAC is equipped to better serve their community with a strong pipeline of clients. #RuralHome

HAC’s partnership with the Adults and Youth United Development Association (AYUDA) highlights the power of pairing technical assistance with lending. For over 30 years, AYUDA has worked to improve housing conditions and access to public services in the colonias around San Elizario, Texas. For the past 12 years, HAC has supported AYUDA in overcoming housing challenges, including building and rehabbing 25 homes just last year. A $367,000 revolving line of credit, tailored to AYUDA’s specific needs, helped them continue their work and keep moving forward. HAC is dedicated to empowering local partners with the tools they need to serve their communities. Read more about AYUDA’s journey and impact: https://loom.ly/TahsNMI #RuralHome #CommunityImpact

The Housing Assistance Council (HAC) is conducting a multimedia research project on Heirs' Properties with the goal of shaping policy priorities, developing financial solutions, and providing best practices for addressing this issue. #Frederiksted, St. Croix is one of the featured locations selected for this project, representing the unique challenges of US territories. This week, Natasha Moodie, OLY, a researcher at HAC, is interviewing local residents, business owners, and government officials about the impact of this issue in the Virgin Islands. I am grateful to be a part of this project and have my hometown represent the territories and give voice to our distinct perspective in this endeavor. This project is made possible by a grant from Wells Fargo. #heirsproperties #usterritories #Frederiksted #USVI #probate #vibrantcommunities #economicdevelopment

Many of the most underserved rural Americans live in high-need regions or are part of vulnerable populations, such as Tribal Lands, farmworker communities, the U.S.-Mexico border colonias, the Lower Mississippi Delta, and Central Appalachia. These areas face unique challenges, especially with low area median incomes, and must be prioritized in federal policy. HAC advocates for policies like the reauthorization of NAHASDA, addressing nontraditional land titles, and increased funding for USDA's Section 514 & 516 programs to support affordable housing for farm laborers. Read HAC's full policy priorities: https://loom.ly/83foQgo #RuralHome #PolicyMatters

Hickory Medical Properties, LLC (HMP) was created by Integrated Care of Greater Hickory (ICGH) to develop residential medical recovery homes as part of their medically assisted treatment (MAT) programs. These homes provide a safe space for individuals recovering from addiction, depression, anxiety, and other behavioral health conditions, while receiving treatment overseen by ICGH. Hickory Medical Properties received a $118,000 loan from HAC, helping cover acquisition costs & immediate repairs for recovery homes. HAC supports smaller loan amounts to ensure critical projects like this one get the funding they need. HAC is proud to help fund innovative housing solutions that make a difference in the lives of those in rural communities on their journey to recovery. #LoanFundFriday #RecoveryHousing #RuralHome

HAC’s Rural Resource Guide: Affordable Housing and Recovery in Rural Communities offers housing practitioners valuable insights and detailed information on federal regulations from HUD, the IRS, and USDA. This guide helps address the need for safe, affordable housing for households affected by substance use disorders in rural areas. The guide empowers professionals to navigate and utilize federally subsidized housing programs effectively. This resource was created to aid in the recovery and improving housing stability in rural communities. Explore the guide to enhance your efforts in making a difference! https://loom.ly/58jWtP0

HAC is excited to be in Minneapolis this week for the 2024 Housing Justice Network Conference. HACsters Natasha Moodie and Jonathan Harwitz will be talking about the critical housing issues impacting rural communities. #HousingJustice #CommunityImpact #HousingSolution #RuralHome