08.13.10
Affordable Senior Housing
In today’s tough economy, many seniors and their families are looking for affordable senior housing. The section 202 program, implemented by the US Government, is designed to increase affordable senior housing in an attempt to meet the growing demand. This type of housing may be right for the senior who is 65 or older and still able to be independent, but not able to sustain mortgage or rent payments on a fixed or low income.
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Section 202 housing is run by non-profit organizations who receive funding from the US Government’s Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The total cost of living in these facilities is based on the individual’s income. These facilities usually also provide support services to senior residents such as community meals, housekeeping, and transportation. Services offered will vary by site.
Begin Your Search
Perhaps the most helpful tool in searching for section 202 housing is the Department of Housing and Urban Development website (http://www.hud.gov/apps/section8/index.cfm) which lists all section 202 housing facilities across the nation. Your first step is to decide where you would like to live, whether you want to stay in the same area or move someplace new. Plug in the location information to the HUD website, and it will provide a listing of all facilities in your chosen location.
Narrowing Your List
Once you have a list of housing locations ready, begin calling each facility and ask the following:
1. Is your facility still a part of the section 202 program?
The facilities and non-profit organizations running them must meet requirement to maintain their 202 status and receive government funding, so always check to make sure they are still actively a part of the section 2020 program. If the answer is yes, continue to #2. If no, continue to the next location on your list.
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2. Do you have any vacancies?
Section 202 housing is in high demand, so if you do find a vacancy, you will want to follow up on it right away since housing cannot be held open for you until you make your final decision. Scheduling an appointment as soon as possible to visit the facility immediately and asking what type of information will be necessary to bring with you will show the agency you are truly interested. If there are no vacancies in your preferred location, you may ask to be added to their waiting list.
3. What type of housing is available?
If handicap accessibility is required, be sure to ask specifically about it. Again because of the high demand for affordable senior housing, you may not be able to be too choosy about the type of housing and exact location. Vacancies are usually snapped up quickly. Â
4. Do I need to make an appointment to view the facility?
Setting an appointment or making a visit as soon as possible is advisable since the vacancy may be filled up quickly.
5. What do I need to bring in order to complete my application? Â
Section 202 housing requires residents to fill out an application and to show proof of low-income (pay stub or Social Security statement), proof of medical expenses (pharmacy or medical bills), proof of ability to live independently (a note from your doctor), and references from previous landlords. Make multiple copies of each of these documents if you are applying to several facilities.
It’s always a good idea to involve a friend or family member in the process of finding appropriate senior housing. In addition, there are HUD representatives available to tell you more about affordable senior housing and the section 202 program.
Because finding a vacancy in 202 housing is a challenge, it’s better to start your search earlier rather than later. Placing your name on waiting lists or securing a spot before your income runs out is of course advisable. With a little persistence, you can find affordable housing.