The Commission of Indian Affairs has taken action to assist needy North Carolinians who qualify for help in securing decent, safe and sanitary housing. On Tuesday, by a unanimous vote, the Commission agreed to revise its Payment Standard for the Section 8 Housing Assistance Program to more closely align with rising housing costs.
The Commission has long served as a designated Public Housing Agency by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Section 8 program provides rent assistance for families in Granville, Person, Halifax, Warren, Hoke, Sampson and Columbus counties.
The subsidy allowance was increased in light of rising rents, unemployment and other difficulties experienced by economically-disadvantaged families. It will have a modest yet meaningful impact, giving us an edge in negotiating with landlords and providing expanded housing opportunities for eligible families in counties served through the program.
This change not only will provide direct benefit to eligible families, but also to communities and the state as a whole. When folks know they can count on basic housing, they are in a better position to care for their family and seek long-term employment. That is the goal of this program, and we will work hard to assist as many families as the funding will allow.
For information, contact the Commission’s Section 8 staff at 919-807-4440 or visit http://www.doa.nc.gov/cia/progr-s8hap.htm.