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The Monroe Housing Authority rental assistance program that was created under Section 8 of the 1974 Federal Housing and Community Development Act provides subsidies to local landlords on behalf of low-income families and individuals living in privately owned housing in the City of Monroe. This program assists eligible families in finding safe, decent, and affordable housing.  MHA makes housing subsidy payments directly to the landlords. MHA is responsible for collecting income verifications and calculating the tenant’s portion of the rent.  The family may pay 30% to 40% of their household income for rent.  This program is based on Federal Income Guidelines. The Monroe Housing Authority’s Housing Choice Voucher Program is committed in providing to the constituents of Monroe, LA services that will improve their lives and futures.

Portability

One of the key features of the housing choice voucher program is the mobility of the assistance.  Voucher participants may choose a unit that meets program requirements anywhere in the United States, provided that a PHA administering the tenant-based program has jurisdiction over the area in which the unit is located.  This process is called portability. The PHA will deny a family permission to make an elective move during the family’s initial lease term.  The PHA will also deny the family to make more than one move during any 12-month period.

Inspections

HUD requires that all units occupied by families receiving Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) assistance meet HUD’s Housing Quality Standards (HQS) and permits the PHA to establish additional requirements.  HQS is the term used to refer to HUD and PHA established inspection requirements.  Passed HQS inspections are REQUIRED before Housing Assistance Payments can be made.

Family Self Sufficiency Program

Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) is one of the initiatives enacted by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) as part of the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990.  The program assists Section 8 families to achieve economic independence.  The program allows participants to take advantage of schooling, training, and to gain work experience, while receiving Section 8 rental assistance.

In addition to this assistance, the Monroe Housing Authority (MHA) will set aside money in an escrow account for employed FSS participants who begin to pay a larger portion of their rent due to their increased earned income.  Successful graduates of the FSS program will receive the funds in their escrow accounts to use as they choose.  Successful FSS graduates have used their escrow funds to purchase a home, a new car, or to continue their education.

There are two ways to graduate successfully from the FSS program.  To receive the funds in the escrow account, the family must do one of the following by the five-year FSS contract:

• Graduation Method #1:
  The family completes all goals set in the individual Training and Service Plan (ITSP); Family members do not receive any cash aid (such as TANF or General Assistance) during the last twelve months of the FSS Contract; and the Head of Household is suitably employed. 
• Graduation Method #2:
  The family’s income increases to the point that the family is no longer eligible for Section 8 rental assistance; Family members do not receive any cash aid (such as TANF or General Assistance) at the time of graduation; and the Head of Household is suitably employed. Participating families must follow all Section 8 regulations and comply with their lease terms.

Start Building a Bridge to a Brighter Future for You and Your Family.  Contact Your FSS coordinator Today! 318-388-1500 ext. 329

FAQ

Q.  Are you accepting Section 8 applications?

A.  Applications are only taken at certain times.  A notice will run in the local newspaper.  Some individuals may qualify for special assistance.  Inquire in person.  Proper verification is required.

Q.  Is there a list of local preferences?

A.  Elderly and Disabled Head or Co-head of Household; Involuntary Displacement (Disaster, Government Action); Veteran or surviving spouse.

Q.  Where do I go to apply in person?

A.  Apply in person at 210 Harrison Street, Monroe, LA 71201, (318) 388-1500.  Monday thru Friday 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.

Q.  How will I know if my application has been approved?

A.  You will receive a letter of eligibility or ineligibility within ten working days after you apply.

Q.  Do I have to be a U.S. Citizen to apply?

A.  You must be a U.S. Citizen, U.S. National or Non-citizen that has eligible immigration status.

Q.  Do you offer emergency housing?

A.  No. Everyone must go on the waiting list.

Q.  What is the age limit of eligibility?

A.  You must be 18 years of age or older to apply.

Q.  Do you have to have children to apply?

A.  No.

Q.  Where are these houses located?

A.  Within the City Limits of Monroe, Louisiana.