Introduction
The Great Falls Housing Authority (GFHA) is a non-profit organization that provides affordable housing for low-income families in Great Falls, Montana. The GFHA was established in 1961 and has been providing housing assistance to families in need for over 60 years.
What is GFHA?
GFHA is a federally funded organization that works with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to provide low-income families with affordable housing options. The goal of GFHA is to provide safe, decent, and affordable housing for families in need.
Why is Affordable Housing Important?
Affordable housing is essential for low-income families as it allows them to live in a safe and secure environment while also providing them with the opportunity to save money for other important expenses such as healthcare, education, and food.
GFHA Programs
Public Housing Program
GFHA operates several public housing programs that provide affordable housing to low-income families. These programs include family housing, senior housing, and disabled housing. The rent for these programs is based on the family’s income, and the program is subsidized by the federal government.
Housing Choice Voucher Program
The Housing Choice Voucher Program is a program that allows low-income families to rent housing in the private market. GFHA provides eligible families with a voucher that covers a portion of their rent, and the family is responsible for paying the remaining portion.
Eligibility Requirements
Income Limits
To be eligible for GFHA programs, families must meet income requirements. The income limits vary depending on the size of the family and the program they are applying for.
Criminal Background Check
GFHA also conducts criminal background checks on all adult members of the household. Individuals with a criminal history may be denied housing assistance.
Application Process
How to Apply
To apply for GFHA housing assistance, families must complete an application and provide documentation of their income and family size. The application can be completed online or in person at the GFHA office.
Waiting List
Due to high demand, GFHA programs often have a waiting list. Families are placed on the waiting list based on their application date and priority status.
Benefits of GFHA
Safe and Decent Housing
GFHA provides families with safe and decent housing options that are affordable and meet HUD’s standards for quality housing.
Financial Assistance
GFHA’s programs provide families with financial assistance that allows them to save money for other important expenses such as healthcare, education, and food.
Support Services
GFHA also offers support services to families, including job training, education, and financial counseling.
Conclusion
GFHA plays an important role in providing affordable housing options to low-income families in Great Falls, Montana. By providing safe and decent housing, financial assistance, and support services, GFHA helps families achieve stability and independence.