The Tucson City Council gave the go ahead for a new program designed to help working families move from transitional housing into their own apartments.
The one-year pilot program, approved Sept. 23, seeks to house at least 35 individuals. The Housing Alternatives for Urban Strength (HAUS) program was the brainchild of City Councilman Paul Cunningham and an attempt to provide people who work but have limited savings with the ability to afford the up-front costs of moving into a rental property.
The goal of the HAUS program is to provide a bridge for individuals who have an income but have not been able to overcome the initial financial challenges of obtaining an apartment lease such as move-in costs, utility hookups or poor/no credit history. The city expects the program to cost $100,000 in its first year.
Qualifying residents must be employed and will be fully responsible for monthly rent. The City will provide residents with financial assistance with move in costs, rental insurance, and other issues.
The City will also provide property owners with a guarantee of up to $2,500 per resident for any unpaid rent and/or damages to the unit.
All participating residents must complete a HAUS training program which will provide education on housing basics, lease compliance, financial literacy and how to be a good resident.
In exchange for the City’s guarantee, property owners must agree to waive the security deposit and any requirement for the last month’s rent payment. Because the City is guaranteeing the lease, property owners are also being asked to show flexibility on their credit checks.
If your property is interested in participating in the HAUS program, please contact the Tucson Housing and Community Development Department at (520) 791-4171.
