DHCD Seeks Comments on its Draft FY2018 Moving to Work Plan - March 7, 2017

DHCD is seeking comments on its Draft FY2018 Moving to Work (MTW) Plan.  MTW is a federal demonstration program that allows a limited number of public housing authorities flexibility in administering housing assistance to increase cost effectiveness, promote economic self-sufficiency, and improve housing choices for low-income families. Under the MTW program, DHCD administers federally funded Housing Choice Vouchers, along with other state-assisted rental assistance programs, through a statewide network of Regional Administering Agencies.

In FY2018, DHCD expects that rental assistance and related services will be provided to nearly 21,000 households as well as supporting 53 project-based units through MTW.  The Draft Plan includes several new initiatives in FY2018, including:

• Expanding Housing Opportunities: In support of a major state-funded initiative to redevelop and preserve state-aided public housing, MTW funds will be utilized for short-term relocation assistance for impacted low-income households.
• Residential Assistance for Families in Transition: Short term financial assistance will be provided to families with children who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.
• Support for Secure Jobs: DHCD will fund targeted case management and employment supports in tandem with voucher assistance for up to 50 participants.
• A Better Life: DHCD will fund an economic self-sufficiency program and limited capital improvements at state public housing developments.
• Health Starts at Home: DHCD will support and enhance an existing program funded by The Boston Foundation which focuses on improving health outcomes for low-income children.
• Equity Builder Program: In partnership with community development financial institutions and developers, DHCD will establish a Lease-to-Own program to support the goal of providing pathways to homeownership for low-income families.
• Affordable Housing Preservation & Development Fund: DHCD will use MTW funds to support the development and preservation of affordable rental housing units through implementation of a new Affordable Housing Preservation and Development Fund. These funds will provide loans to eligible projects to leverage private equity and state-aided public housing capital resources.

DHCD will host two public hearings on its Draft Plan on March 16^th in Springfield and on March 17^th at DHCD in Boston. For more information on the public hearings, including how to register, please click here. DHCD will accept written comments on the Draft Plan through April 6, 2017.