Learning from Each Other: New Ideas for Managing the Section 8 Certificate andVoucher Programs

摘要

The publication provides a glimpse of some of the innovative and creativepractices housing authorities (Has) are using to improve the Section 8 certificate and voucher programs in order to stimulate thinking for further innovations. It includes samples of innovations related to the application process, verifying participants, housing searches, leasing, community relations, and combining Section 8 with other programs such as Family Self-Sufficiency and Veterans Administration Supportive Housing. Some innovations make use of technologies such as interactive telephone response systems, bar-coded forms, applications by mail or fax, and geo-coding and automated address matching. Others involve cooperative arrangements with adjacent housing authorities or agencies, such as the Dakota County, MN, Housing Authority's partnership with the sheriff's departments and the agency administering AFDC for investigating suspecting cases of fraud. In Marin County, CA, the Has works to persuade landlords to accept the security deposit from the tenant in installments because poor families often have difficulty amassing a security deposit. Mobility housing counseling is being offered in a variety of forms to help participants take full advantage of the choice options of the program. Landlord partnerships, education, and advisory committees are being used in recognition of the importance of their role in the program. Techniques such as quarterly seminars, direct deposits of payments, and special units to handle complaints are being used. While some innovations are being made at the Federal level, local innovations are driving program improvement.