In today's economic climate, securing affordable housing has become a critical issue affecting a growing number of individuals and families.

As home rental and ownership costs outpace income growth, many people find themselves grappling with the harsh realities of housing instability. These circumstances can have a profound impact on various aspects of life, including employment, health, and education.

Behind each case are real people struggling to maintain stability in the face of these difficulties. If you’re one of those people, you’re probably wondering where you can go to secure economical housing. Here are the most common organizations that can help.

1. Government Subsidized Housing Programs

There are several government-subsidized programs aimed at assisting individuals and families with affordable housing options by providing reduced-rent or even rent-free opportunities for low-income individuals and families.

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers are an essential part of a federal rental assistance program designed to help low-income individuals and families afford safe and decent housing. Administered by local public housing authorities (PHAs), the program provides eligible participants with vouchers that they can use to rent living spaces from private landlords in the open market. 

These vouchers cover a portion of the rent, with the participant responsible for paying the remaining amount based on their income. The goal is to give recipients choice and flexibility in selecting housing while ensuring that the rental unit meets certain quality and affordability standards.

Public Housing

Public housing refers to government-owned and managed residential units provided to low-income individuals and families. These units are typically operated by local PHAs and offer affordable rental options for those who meet eligibility requirements. 

Public housing is intended to serve as a long-term solution, providing safe and decent homes for low-income individuals who may have difficulty affording options in the private market. Rents in public housing are typically set at a budget-appropriate level based on income, and residents may have access to supportive services and community resources within the public housing development.

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) caters specifically to low-income households in meeting their energy-related expenses. 

LIHEAP primarily focuses on helping eligible individuals and families afford home heating and cooling costs. It offers financial aid to cover energy bills, energy crisis interventions, and weatherization services to improve energy efficiency in homes. The program is designed to ensure that low-income households can maintain safe and comfortable living conditions while managing their energy costs effectively. Administered at the state and local levels, specific eligibility criteria and application procedures may vary by location.

Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly

Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly provides several options and supportive services for elderly individuals aged 62 years or older with low incomes. The program helps create and maintain housing developments specifically designed to meet the unique needs of older adults, promoting independent living and aging in place. 

Section 202 projects typically offer rental assistance to ensure affordability, along with access to supportive services like transportation, meals, and healthcare coordination. Their purpose is to enhance the quality of life for elderly individuals by providing safe, accessible, and supportive housing environments.

Housing for Persons with Disabilities

Housing for Persons with Disabilities encompasses various government programs and initiatives built to provide economical and accessible options for individuals with disabilities. These programs may include Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities and the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program, which assists homeless veterans with finding homes and supportive services. 

These programs prioritize creating inclusive environments, promoting independent living, and addressing the unique needs of individuals with disabilities to ensure they have access to safe, affordable, and supportive housing.

HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME)

The HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) provides grant funding to state and local governments to support a range of low-cost housing activities. This program works to expand the supply of viable housing options for low-income individuals and families. 

HOME funds can be used for various purposes, including the construction, rehabilitation, or acquisition of less-expensive units, down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers, and tenant-based rental assistance. These grants are flexible and allow local communities to tailor their strategies to meet specific needs. The program encourages collaboration between the public and private sectors to address low-cost housing challenges.

Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA)

The federal Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) initiative specifically caters to low-income individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS. HOPWA addresses the unique housing needs of this population, including rental assistance, short-term and long-term subsidies, and supportive services such as case management, mental health counseling, and substance abuse treatment. 

Overall, HOPWA helps improve housing stability, promote independent living, and enhance the overall well-being and quality of life for individuals and families affected by this disease. The grants are administered at the local level through partnerships between government agencies, nonprofits, and community organizations.

Rural Rental Assistance Program

The Rural Rental Assistance Program is a federal initiative that provides rental assistance to low-income individuals and families residing in rural areas. Administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the program aims to provide sufficient options for rural residents. Support is provided to eligible households, covering the gap between 30% of their adjusted income and the rental unit's total monthly cost. 

It primarily targets properties financed by the USDA, including multifamily projects and farm labor housing. The Rural Rental Assistance Program helps alleviate the financial burden of living costs for low-income individuals and promotes stable and affordable housing in rural communities. 

Housing Preservation Grants

Housing Preservation Grants (HPG) are another federal program that provides funding to organizations and nonprofits to preserve and improve housing options in rural communities. The program assists low-income homeowners and rental property owners with repairs, renovations, and rehabilitation projects. 

HPG grants can be used for activities such as addressing health and safety hazards, making accessibility modifications, or improving energy efficiency. The program helps ensure that decent living conditions remain available and in good condition for rural residents with limited financial resources. By preserving existing housing stock, HPG contributes to the overall stability and viability of rural communities.

Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Programs

FHA Programs are initiatives overseen by the Federal Housing Administration, a division of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). FHA-insured loans are offered through approved lenders and provide more flexible qualification requirements, lower down payment options, and competitive interest rates. 

FHA programs include loans for first-time homebuyers, refinancing options, rehabilitation loans for home improvements, and reverse mortgages for seniors. The FHA's role is to mitigate risk for lenders, making homeownership more accessible for borrowers who may not meet conventional loan criteria.

Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act

The Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) is a federal law that governs housing assistance and self-governance for Native American tribes and their members. NAHASDA provides funding and support to tribes for the development, operation, and maintenance of affordable programs within their communities. 

The act grants tribes greater control and flexibility in designing and implementing programs to address their unique needs. NAHASDA works to improve housing conditions, increase homeownership opportunities, and promote self-sufficiency for Native American individuals and families. It also encourages tribal self-determination and empowerment, allowing tribes to shape policies and programs according to their cultural and community-specific requirements.

It's important to note that these programs may have specific eligibility criteria and requirements. To qualify for these programs, you'll need to meet certain income and other eligibility requirements, and there may be a waitlist. 

Use our search tool to find information on government-subsidized housing programs available in your area. 

2. Non-Profit Organizations

Nonprofit organizations, such as Habitat for Humanity, can provide reduced-cost or no-cost housing to those in need. Habitat for Humanity, for example, is a nonprofit organization that builds and renovates homes for low-income individuals and families. They typically offer no-interest mortgages, which can make it more affordable for people to purchase a home. 

Habitat for Humanity

Habitat for Humanity is a non-profit organization that works to address the issue of inadequate housing and homelessness. They build and rehabilitate affordable homes in partnership with low-income families in need. Habitat for Humanity uses volunteer labor and donated resources to construct these homes, and they offer the homes to partner families at an economical price with an interest-free mortgage. 

The organization believes in "a world where everyone has a decent place to live" and works towards that vision by promoting low-cost homeownership, advocating for affordable housing policies, and providing support and education to partner families throughout the process.

Mercy Housing

Mercy Housing is a non-profit organization that focuses on developing, managing, and preserving affordable rental opportunities for low-income individuals and families, seniors, and people with special needs. They strive to provide safe, stable, and supportive housing options to promote dignity and improve the quality of life for their residents. 

Mercy Housing also offers various resident services such as health and wellness programs, educational opportunities, and community-building activities. Their mission is to create and sustain communities where all people can thrive and achieve their full potential.

The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army offers various programs and services to help people secure housing. They provide emergency shelters for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, offering a safe place to stay temporarily. The organization also operates transitional programs that assist individuals in adjusting from homelessness to stable, permanent housing. 

Additionally, the Salvation Army may offer case management, counseling, and support services to address the underlying causes of homelessness and promote self-sufficiency. 

3. Emergency Rental Assistance Programs

Many cities, states, and non-profit organizations offer emergency rental assistance programs to help low-income individuals and families who are facing eviction or who are experiencing short-term financial hardship to pay their rent. These programs may have different eligibility requirements and application processes, some may have limitations on the amount of funding. 

4. Community Action Centers

Community Action Centers, also known as Community Action Agencies (CAAs), are local private and public non-profit organizations that work to address poverty at the community level. They offer a variety of services, including assistance with housing. 

Housing Counseling

Community Action Centers often provide housing counseling services. Counselors can help individuals understand their options, navigate the rental or home-buying process, understand their rights as tenants or homeowners, and find solutions to housing problems they may be experiencing.

Financial Assistance

Some Community Action Centers may provide direct financial assistance to help with housing costs. This could include help with rent, mortgage payments, or utility bills. The availability of funds depends on the resources of the individual CAA and may be subject to eligibility criteria.

Homebuyer Education and Assistance

For individuals looking to buy a home, many Community Action Centers offer homebuyer education classes. These classes can help prospective buyers understand the home-buying process, including securing a mortgage, and may be required for certain types of loans. Some CAAs may also offer down-payment assistance programs for eligible individuals.

Homelessness Prevention and Intervention

Community Action Centers often play a role in preventing homelessness and helping those who are experiencing homelessness. This could include providing temporary shelter, assisting with rapid rehousing, or offering supportive services like case management.

Housing Development

Some Community Action Centers are involved in developing affordable housing within their community. They may construct new homes or rehabilitate existing homes and apartments to provide housing options that fit a smaller budget.

Advocacy and Education

Community Action Centers also work to advocate for affordable housing policies at the local, state, and national levels. They educate the public and policymakers about issues and work to create systemic changes that increase access to lower-cost options.

Remember, the specific services offered can vary from one Community Action Center to another, so it's always best to contact your local CAA directly to find out what assistance is available in your area.

5. First-Time Homebuyer Assistance Programs

First-time homebuyer assistance programs are designed to help make the process of buying a home more affordable for people who are buying their first home. These programs can provide financial support, low-interest loans, or tax breaks to help with the costs of purchasing a home. Eligibility requirements and the amount of funds can vary depending on the program, state, and city that you live in, so research and find the best option for you and your situation.

Securing affordable housing remains a challenge for many individuals and families. However, with access to the right programs and support, many individuals can receive the assistance they need to achieve stability and financial well-being.