Grant funds help locals receive housing

Boulder Housing Partners (BHP) received grant funds in the amount of $572,808 for 81 Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers to serve applicants with disabilities under age 62 who are currently on BHP’s wait list. The vouchers will allow these applicants, many of whom have been on the wait list for years, to rent from a private landlord and pay only what is affordable for them (approximately 30%-40% of their adjusted income). BHP pays the balance through federal subsidies. The award began last month and can be renewed on a yearly basis.

BHP has seen an increase in applicants during the recession. Currently, there are over 1,000 people on the wait list. Wait time can vary from three to six years from the date the application is received. Highest priority is given to people currently working or living in the city of Boulder that are considered elderly (62+ years), people with disabilities or a family. Due to the high number of applicants, the wait list is currently closed. Interested residents can visit www.boulderhousing.org for the next wait list opening.

“BHP is very pleased to have received this award and continues to advocate for more affordable housing for the residents of the city of Boulder,” said Betsey Martens, BHP executive director. “This is such great news, especially in the economic climate that we are currently experiencing.”
The Section 8 Housing Program is a federally-funded program designed to assist low-income families receive housing. Participants can choose any housing that meets the requirements of the program and is not limited to units located in subsidized housing sites.