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Johnny
Memphis, Tennessee

"The FSS program provided me with the tools to maintain financial responsibility by eliminating debt, improve credit score, and enroll in the RISE Foundation Save Up program. I was able to put in hard work by going to financial classes, maintaining employment, and save to purchase my dream home."

Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Johnny moved into the Jefferson Square Apartments in 2013. Her goals were to obtain a certification at Concrete Career Institution for Business Empowerment and pursue homeownership. After completing school, she continued to work as a caregiver, but she needed assistance to start working on her dream of becoming a homeowner. The Service Coordinator at Jefferson Square referred her to the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program. In 2018, Johnny enrolled into the FSS program to pursue homeownership. In the program, she was determined to set a target year to achieve the American dream of homeownership by improving her credit score, paying off debt, and earning more income from working a full-time job. With this job, she was able to budget, manage expenses, and save towards a down payment. In 2019, Johnny closed on her first home, achieving her goal of homeownership.

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Kathleen
Redmond, Oregon

“The Family Self-Sufficiency program helped me stay focused and motivated over my journey. The reward of owning my own home is an indescribable dream come true.”

In November 2004, Kathleen received a Housing Choice Voucher. At the time she was a young single mother with another baby on the way. She was unemployed at the time, and the voucher provided her the safe, affordable housing she needed to stabilize her family. Kathleen joined her local Housing Authority’s PATHWorks program for the first time in September 2009. When she began, she set a goal to enroll in college and improve her credit score. Over the years working in the program, she improved her credit, paid down debt, and focused on managing her budget. She also earned her National Career Readiness Certificate from WorkSource and was enrolled at Central Oregon Community College working towards a Health Information Technology degree. In 2013 Kathleen applied for the Valley Individual Development Account (VIDA) post-secondary education saving program to help pay for her education. Proudly, Kathleen earned her degree in June 2016. She continued on her journey later that year by re-enrolling in the PathWorks program where she set a new goal – homeownership. She joined the VIDA homeownership program to save for her down payment and a year later was accepted into the Housing Works Tutor Home program and released her housing choice voucher, a major accomplishment. In February 2020, Kathleen was approved for a home loan and purchased her own home using her VIDA to help with the closing costs.

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Jacqueline
Kewanee, Ilinois

“Setting realistic goals, putting them on paper and executing them is what it is all about in the Family Self Sufficiency Program. You must want it. I was able to get my finances under control, pay off debt and make advances in my personal and professional. When things became tough, they were always there for me. I cannot thank them enough. It’s surreal. It’s magical. It’s wonderful. A little bit really does go a long way, and they strive for success, greatness and show great compassion. Thank you to the Housing Choice Voucher and Family Self Sufficiency Program for giving me that extra push and assisting with money for the down payment on my family’s new home.”

Jacqueline is a single mom and sole supporter of her two school aged sons. To enhance her economic outlook and work toward self-sufficiency, she enrolled in the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) with plans to take classes and become a Certified Nursing Assistant working with an elderly population. Through work experience, she discovered her passion is working with developmentally disabled adults and is now working for a non-profit agency that serves this population. She has since advanced to a full-time position with the organization. When she initially enrolled in the FSS program, Jacqueline set three goals for herself: attain and advance in her employment; improve her credit rating; and with her FSS escrow savings, become a homeowner. In November 2020, she achieved her dream and closed on her first home.

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Deloris
Portland, Oregon

“I have put in a lot of work and sweat equity and have really enjoyed the process. I would love to thank my FSS Coordinators for believing in me and pushing me forward. Giving me the strength to pursue this goal. I am a homeowner, my first home and am so excited and filled with joy. Thank you Home Forward for helping me along the way.”

For the last 44 years, Deloris has been renting and never believed she could become a homeowner. When she first enrolled in the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program, her Coordinator encouraged her. A year after enrolling in the program, Deloris received an email inviting her to attend a homeownership orientation and assigning her a case worker at the Portland Housing Center. After putting in some sweat equity, she is now the proud owner of a condo through Habitat for Humanity. A goal she never thought was attainable is now her reality.

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Jenniflower
Warren, VT

“I am loving my home so very much. It is an amazing feeling, and my daughter is very proud of me. It’s still surreal when I come home and stand in my driveway looking at the mountains and see the hummingbirds visiting MY very own gardens. It was worth the long journey to stand in my sweet, perfect little dream cottage and realize that I did this! It is an investment into my family’s future.”

Jenniflower’s story is an inspiring example of how the FSS program supports participants as they work towards their goals. During her participation in the FSS program, Jenniflower moved from unemployment to full-time employment, repaired and improved her credit, purchased a vehicle, completed several certifications through her employer, and ultimately became a homeowner. She used her escrow from FSS graduation towards costs of purchasing her home.

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Nirca
Lynn, Massachusetts

“Purchasing a home and being a first-time buyer has been a big impact of emotions. Being a homeowner enhances self-determination at the heart of the American dream. It has increased my freedom, stability, and security. I am very fortunate for all the great opportunities and very proud of myself of the hard work.

Nirca joined the Lynn Housing Authority and Neighborhood Development (LHAND) Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program in May of 2014. At the time, she was struggling to make ends meet as a single parent. During her time in the FSS program, she learned how to budget build savings and increase her credit score. She utilized all the resources offered her at the Compass Working Capital along with resources from LHAND to achieve all her goals. Nirca graduated from the program in April 2019, received her escrow check and an additional $5,000 from the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development, for which she was eligible as a first-time home buyer. At graduation, her annual income was more than doubled that of her income at program entry. Nirca happily moved into her new home in early July 2019.

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Denisha
Louisiana

“As a single parent life was sometimes difficult. But when I look at my kids, I knew I had to persevere. I found a good job and moved up the ladder. Through the Housing Choice Voucher program, I signed up for the Family Self Sufficiency program. I set goals and accomplished them. Recently I fulfilled my dream of becoming a homeowner. It makes me feel good inside to see the happiness on my children’s faces. Dreams really do come true!”

Denisha was a Housing Choice Voucher participant but always dreamed of owning her own home. She enrolled in HUD’s Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) program, and was able to take the First Time Home Buyer’s class. She worked through the program and saved her money, successfully graduating with an escrow check to put toward the purchase of her new home. She is now living in a beautiful home that she is very proud of. Denisha works full time and plans to go back to school soon to continue to grow her economic outlook.

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Lisa
Salem, Oregon

“I am so grateful to the Family Self-Sufficiency Coordinators that helped me set goals and helped me determine the steps I needed to take to become financially secure. I’ve gone through many ups and downs in my life as a single mother but every experience I have had with the program and associated programs has been amazing. I truly feel blessed to be involved in the amazing work that these programs provide, and I encourage everyone I can to get involved.”

Lisa joined the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program in 2015. During this time, she was employed part-time, receiving minimum wage income and struggling financially to provide as a single parent of three children, and living in subsidized housing. When she enrolled in the FSS program, she set a number of aggressive goals for herself, including a search for full-time employment with a higher wage and increasing her financial capacity in becoming self-sufficient. Over just five years, Lisa obtained the tools she needed to become self-sufficient. Throughout the process she was able to pay of $10,000 in debt, obtain a full-time job, and increase her financial capacity. She received her Family Self-Sufficiency escrow savings check and VIDA IDA matched savings, both funds were applied towards the down payment to purchase her very own home.

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Vivian
Memphis, Tennessee

“Getting a house is a process, but I never gave up. I thank God for blessing me with my home.”

Vivian experienced some difficult times and received public housing assistance in 2011. But by 2016, she obtained a full-time job with a livable wage. Vivian took this opportunity to pursue her dream of homeownership. She enrolled into the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program, which assisted her with budget management, saving and repairing credit and establishing other goals towards homeownership. This process allowed her to become financially stable. Within eighteen months, Vivian worked diligently to repair her credit and save money for a down payment on a home. As a result, she was able to move onto the next step of locating a realtor to assist with finding a home. Vivian was determined to not let anything, or anyone stop her from achieve the goal of homeownership. In early 2020, she closed on her first home and finally reached her goal of becoming a homeowner.

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Muriel
Denver, CO

“Being a homeowner feels good and stable to me. It still feels like a dream to me. I can’t believe after 26 years of living in public housing, I now own my own home.”

In 1993, Muriel and her children moved into Denver Housing Authority (DHA)’s public housing. Shortly after moving in they took advantage of many of the programs the housing authority offered, such as the employment training program. Muriel was doing well but knew she wanted more. Soshe enrolled in DHA's Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) and Homeownership Program. Through her work in theFSS program, Muriel learned how to clean up her credit, pay off bills, and save up toward homeownership. In 2018, she enrolled in the “Home Buyers Club”, which helped her navigate the process of buying a home Today, Muriel is a proud homeowner. And recently, she applied for a security position to help continue to increase her savings.

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Carolina
Lynn, Massachusetts

Carolina Delgado entered the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program with a strong drive to be self-sufficient and own a home, when she enrolled in April of 2015. At the time, she had a low-paying job and struggled with her credit. Throughout her time in the FSS program, Carolina increased her credit score by more than 100 points and made tremendous gains at her job, increasing her annual earnings. In July 2020, Carolina was able to leave the Section 8 voucher program and purchased her first home. She was able to use her FSS escrow savings along with a $5,000 homeownership bonus provided by Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development toward the purchase of her very own home. “I thank God first then the program [Family Self Sufficiency] for helping me make my dream of homeownership a reality, “Carolina said. “I put all my strength and energy into this goal so I could create a better future for my daughters.”

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Lynn
Troy, Missouri

“Participating in the FSS program helped me put my goal of becoming a homeowner into motion. Knowing I was being held accountable to achieve my goals kept me motivated to succeed. Owning a home is a wonderful feeling and means the world to me because it’s mine and no one can take that away.”

Lynn is a single parent and the sole provider for her household, and she has always dreamed of owning a home. On her path toward this goal, Lynne enrolled in the Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) program in April 2016. Advisors with the program helped Lynne to develop her Individual Training and Service Plan (ITSP); which included taking steps toward homeownership. She worked diligently with her FSS Coordinator to contribute to her escrow account while also providing for her family. In April 2020, one year prior to her FSS graduation date, Lynn’s dream of owning a home came true. She was able to utilize her FSS escrow and money from her savings account towards the purchase of her new home.

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Yezenia
New Haven, CT

“I believe my poorly made choices in life led me to homelessness not once, but twice. However, those poorly made choices also gave me the drive I have today to embrace growth. Never give up hope and have faith in yourself. Believe the power you have within.”

Yezenia was born in Chicago, Illinois and moved to New Haven at the age of three with her two siblings and mother. At the age of 19, Yezenia turned to drugs and struggled with addiction. Her addiction and mental health resulted in experiencing homelessness twice before receiving help to get back on her feet. She connected with New Reach, a local homeless service provider, and is receiving assistance under Shelter Plus Care, a HUD program that provides rental assistance to homeless persons with disabilities. Since enrolling in the program, Yezenia has been granted custody of her son and received her certification as a National Certified Medical Assistant. Within the next five years, Yezenia would like to improve her credit to purchase her own home, own a decent car and receive her master’s degree.

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Leonard
Rhode Island

“Enjoying my new home is a huge understatement, I feel like I have been blessed to enter heaven without dying. To anyone else facing homelessness, keep hope and your eyes on the future.”

During Leonard’s recent journey from homelessness to a home of his own, he started working with a Rhode Island Veterans Administration case manager who connected him to the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) voucher program. He recently used his voucher to move into his very own apartment, where he can continue to create art and his three adult children can visit him. The artwork he creates reflects his tumultuous and stormy life from the Vietnam War at eighteen years old, to spending decades incarcerated.

Through HUD’s collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs, eligible veterans like Leonard receive HUD-VASH vouchers to make market rate housing affordable. They also receive wraparound supportive services, such as case management, financial literacy training, healthcare, and other types of assistance from the VA. Learn about the HUD-VASH program and enrollment eligibility. Veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness should contact the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838).

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Dinah
Portland, Oregon

“When I received my HUD housing voucher right before my daughter was born, I promise you God heard my prayers and answered them. I was overwhelmed with joy and tears when I got the call back with an approval for my first apartment. I gave birth to my daughter a week after moving into my first apartment from the motel. The program [Housing Choice Voucher] showed me that I can dream and meet my goals. The help and support are available to make that happen. HUD wants to see every participant succeed and meet all goals. I’ve proven it can be done and I’m doing just that today.”

Dinah was living in a motel while she was pregnant with her first child. She was working during the day and going to school at night to earn her high school diploma. Eventually, she had to drop out of high school to work a second job because she could no longer afford her motel fees with the income from one job. Before moving into her first apartment, she took a “ready to rent” class offered through the public housing authority. The class assisted her with finding her apartment and all the items necessary to successfully move in. Dinah has since earned her high school diploma and attended community college. She is now working as Medical Specialist, helping to save lives during the coronavirus global pandemic. Dinah considers her job as an essential worker a blessing. She takes pride in helping others, ensuring patients receive the medical care and advice they need from doctors and nurses. HUD’s Housing Choice Voucher Program provides safe, decent and affordable housing in the private market to low-income families, seniors and the disabled.

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Harry
Boston, MA

“As a young man growing up, I always had the passion to help people. I would always go out of my way to assist others. I enjoy being able to assist the elders without the fear of the pandemic and of course with proper protection. I have devoted my time to assist other Haitians who have a language barrier with filling out housing authority applications or going to doctor appointments. Always seek help. Whatever you do, do not give up and do not get discouraged. Be strong and stay focused.”

Harry is a long-term public housing resident at the Boston Housing Authority (BHA). He came to BHA seeking HUD-assisted housing when faced with exorbitant rent prices in the Boston metropolitan area. Harry is a retired health-care worker. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he is volunteering with the City of Boston’s Age Strong Senior Companion Program. There and in his daily life, Harry uses his bilingual skills to communicate with people of Haitian descent in Boston to help ensure they can access the services they need to succeed.

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April
Colorado

“Having my own apartment has finally given me the capability to be my own self within my living areas and live an honest life. I can express myself freely and continue to mature into the responsible, loving, and courageous adult I am. Being able to utilize the FYI voucher has made reaching the level of independence I desired attainable and less stressful. I can focus more on my schooling and future without having to worry about the high cost of living in Colorado. My rent is affordable, and I have the assistance I need to begin and continue into adulthood, and most importantly I now have an actual home! My advice to someone leaving foster care – don’t lose hope when times are tough, and you feel stuck. Use all the negative things that are happening to you now and in the past to fuel your fire to exceed and accomplish your dreams.”

April grew up in Texas and moved to Colorado in August of 2016. She has been in and out of the foster care system since the age of twelve. After she was removed from her mother, she went through seven different homes. After each move, she would continue to lose hope of ever being happy again, but it also motivated her to strive in her academics and dream of the future most kids are handed. April has received housing assistance through HUD’s Foster Youth to Independence Program, and it has positively impacted her life with the stability she lacked for so long. She plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing and a career in geriatric nursing. She also plans on developing more independent living skills and seeking relationships that are going to further her adventurous life. In July 2019, Secretary Carson launched the Foster to Youth Independence initiative, providing housing vouchers to public housing authorities to prevent and end homelessness among young adults who recently left the foster care system without a home. Since then, HUD has awarded more than $5.5 million and approximately 680 vouchers nationwide to assist young adults.

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Dominique
Ohio

“When I traveled to DC, I vouched for housing solutions for foster youth. Especially for young people who are couch-surfing, because they are bouncing from place to place, and at any time that person can kick them out. Having a safe place to call home matters to me because I feel it’s important for everyone to have the opportunity to excel in life. To me, a home is a safe haven, a place you can go to feel safe, to get rest, and to relax and be yourself. We as foster youth have no choice when they say it’s our time to leave the system. Too often, we are left with nowhere to go, no resources and no family support. Living under bridges or walking the streets to me is inhumane, and that’s why I feel so passionate about homelessness and housing after foster care. I feel that at 18, no one is fully ready to leave foster care and just do a great job at life without any help. Most times, regular kids who have their family can return home when needed throughout their 20s. When it comes to the advice I would give someone who is leaving foster care, my quote will always be to, “Speak out today to make changes for tomorrow.”

Dominique is one of 60 former foster youth representing ACTION Ohio, who traveled to DC between 2013 and 2019 to partner with the National Center for Housing and Child Welfare (NCHCW) in pursuing national solutions for young people aging out of the foster care system and at risk of homelessness. In March 2019, ACTION Ohio and NCHCW met directly with Secretary Carson to present a proposal to house former foster youth. Within four months of their meeting, Secretary Carson launched the Foster to Youth Independence initiative, providing housing vouchers to public housing authorities to prevent and end homelessness among young adults who recently left the foster care system without a home. Since July 2019, HUD has awarded more than $5.5 million and approximately 680 vouchers nationwide to assist young adults.

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Roman
Ohio

“I was deeply honored to be able to meet with HUD Secretary Ben Carson in person. What meant the most to me was that he recognized that our proposed solutions were viable, and asked questions to determine the logistics needed to move them forward. His support was authentic, and he immediately started the process of moving forward to make FYI housing vouchers for foster youth a national reality. My involvement started when someone in my life encouraged me to run for the position of Treasurer of the OHIO Youth Advisory Board [YAB]. I soon discovered that being involved on the Board made it possible for me to voice my concerns and solutions for foster youth. My advice for someone leaving foster care is – to continue advocating for resources for foster youth especially when it comes to the major things that are absolutely needed for independence.”

Roman is one of 60 former foster youth representing ACTION Ohio, who traveled to DC between 2013 and 2019 to partner with the National Center for Housing and Child Welfare (NCHCW) in pursuing national solutions for young people aging out of the foster care system and at risk of homelessness. In March 2019, ACTION Ohio and NCHCW met directly with Secretary Carson to present a proposal to house former foster youth. Within four months of their meeting, Secretary Carson launched the Foster to Youth Independence initiative, providing housing vouchers to public housing authorities to prevent and end homelessness among young adults who recently left the foster care system without a home. Since July 2019, HUD has awarded more than $5.5 million and approximately 680 vouchers nationwide to assist young adults.

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Suzan
Colorado

“This voucher [Foster Youth to Independence housing voucher] is a foundation to give you a good jump start to independent living. It's a once in a lifetime opportunity. Use it well.”

Suzan was refugee from Uganda who was in foster care and emancipated at age 18. After she emancipated, she began sleeping on a couch in a friend’s apartment. She felt the living situation was not stable and she could fall into homelessness at any time. At that time, Suzan was informed by a Chaffee Housing Authority staff member about HUD’s Foster Youth to Independence housing voucher. She obtained a voucher, which eased her into independent living. The voucher gives Suzan relief from the concern she felt about possible homelessness. It allows her to attend school without being worried about rent payments and provides stability in the event she becomes unemployed. She knows because it happened recently amid the pandemic. Fortunately, she has obtained new employment, but she knows she would not have been able to pay her rent in full if she didn’t have a voucher. In five years, Suzan sees herself as a nurse practitioner and a well-established advocate for change in her community. In July 2019, Secretary Carson launched the Foster to Youth Independence initiative, providing housing vouchers to public housing authorities to prevent and end homelessness among young adults who recently left the foster care system without a home. Since then, HUD has awarded more than $5.5 million and approximately 680 vouchers nationwide to assist young adults.

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Rafael
San Antonio, Texas

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Latoya
Montana

“This voucher helped me so much, not having to worry about a roof over my head, not having to worry about being homeless reduced my stress and let me concentrate on my job and my future.”

Latoya grew up in her grandparents’ home in Montana because her parents were not able to take care of her. In 2015, the four people closest to Latoya passed away within a few months of each other, including both of her grandparents. With no family and no one to take care of her, she was taken by the state and sent to a group home because she was not stable enough to go to a foster home. After completing a treatment program, she moved in and out of group homes and foster care, where she endured abuse at the hands of her guardians and struggled to keep up with her schoolwork. She overcame many challenges to succeed in school while holding a steady job, and just graduated from high school. In May 2020, she received a Foster Youth to Independence (FYI) voucher and now has her own apartment, a car, and a job. She is now thinking about her future. Her dream is help other kids in her same situation. She would tell them not to give up, it never did her any good. She wants them to trust someone and talk to them – she wants to be that someone. In July 2019, Secretary Carson launched the Foster to Youth Independence initiative, providing housing vouchers to public housing authorities to prevent and end homelessness among young adults who recently left the foster care system without a home. Since then, HUD has awarded more than $5.5 million and approximately 680 vouchers nationwide to assist young adults.

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Kacie
New York

"This voucher helped me support a home for me and my baby when I had nowhere to go. I would have probably wound up in a shelter until I somehow found a place to go."

Kacie’s mom passed away when she was 13 years old. At 16, she ran away from home to escape abuse and alcoholism then was placed in a non-secure detention facility until she was placed in a foster home. When she turned 18, Kacie left foster care and worked with her caseworker and the local housing authority to secure a Foster Youth to Independence voucher. Kacie will welcome her beautiful baby into the world soon and is hoping to study to become an X-Ray Technician. In July 2019, Secretary Carson launched the Foster to Youth Independence initiative, providing housing vouchers to public housing authorities to prevent and end homelessness among young adults who recently left the foster care system without a home. Since then, HUD has awarded more than $5.5 million and approximately 680 vouchers nationwide to assist young adults.

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Chatiqua
Erie, PA

“Owning a home means stability. It’s a strong foundation for me and my family. For years my daughter would ask me, ‘Mom, can we get a house?’ I’d tell her, ‘It’s coming, just not right now.’ I realized that if this little girl kept talking about getting a house, then I need to work hard to get that house. Going through the course [Movement Mortgage Homeownership Course] was eye-opening. I learned things I was never taught about being a homeowner, and all the steps you have to go through—there are so many! That was the biggest surprise for me.”

Housing Authority of the City of Erie (HACE) Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) graduate Chatiqua Keyes-Carr and her two children moved into their first home in May, thanks to her hard work in the Movement Mortgage Homeownership Course. While working with her FSS caseworker, she was told about the course. Chatiqua completed the course and was able to buy a house just in time to plant a spring garden with her daughter—a year ahead of what she had thought possible. According to HACE Executive Director Mike Fraley, Chatiqua represents one of the ongoing success stories of public housing and Section 8 participants—young and old—who are buying houses, going to college, getting full-time jobs, and graduating from the Housing Authority Section 8 and Public Housing Family Self-Sufficiency Programs.

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Violet
Greensboro, North Carolina

“It feels amazing to become a first-time homeowner! I am happy, grateful, and give God all the glory. It was always a dream of mine, but I wasn’t sure it would ever come true. I am very appreciative for the FHA loan. I was able to use the funds from the City of Greensboro’s Downpayment Assistance Program for my 3.5 percent down payment. To anyone working towards becoming a homeowner, be patient. It can be a stressful process, but the most important thing is to not give up.”

At the young age of 83, Violet became a first-time homeowner through the City of Greensboro’s Downpayment assistance program. Before receiving the assistance, she attended an 8-hour class that provided information about homeownership, budgeting inspection, appraisal, and financing. Violet grew up in White Stone, Virginia where her father was a share farmer and her mother raised chickens that she used to barter. In 2001, she moved to Greensboro to be close to her daughter and grandchildren. Since then, she has been blessed with three great grandchildren.

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Yolanda
Louisville, KY

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Aimee
Livermore, CA

“I love what I do and bringing relief and comfort to my patients brings me satisfaction at the end of the day. I am very thankful for LHA [Livermore Housing Authority] and HUD for giving people like me a chance. When I started on the program, I did not have sufficient income or education to support myself. This program has allowed me to go back to school and gain the education and medical experience I possess today. My goal is to move into upper management within the next five years and no longer need the program”

Aimee is from Livermore, California, and a single mother of three children. The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program has allowed Aimee to follow her passion of becoming a medical assistant for a large health care organization in both urgent and primary care. She cares for her patients and her family with empathy and compassion. Aimee has appreciated the Housing Choice Voucher Program to allow her the opportunity to care for her family, as well as pursuing her goals of education in the medical field in hopes of obtaining a management position and economic self-sufficiency.

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Andres
Brownsville, Texas

“Having the opportunity to be involved and engaged with the EnVision Center has been a remarkable experience, unlike any other. We are fortunate to have a centralized hub in our community that is geared towards empowering individuals through four pillars. Although operations are currently virtual, I cannot wait to witness the wonderful programs and experiences that will come out of the building, specifically ones that will empower other young people to become agents of change for their community.”

Andres, a high school senior and volunteer at Buena Vida Choice EnVision Center, has dedicated his time to connecting residents and the community to resources they need the most. He has also expanded the EnVision Center’s social media accounts and helping the Center with its special projects. Andres was recently awarded a $5,000 grant through the Rep My City Challenge. This grant allowed him to join with local community partners to provide groceries, fresh produce, and supplies to over 1,000 residents in need at a drive-thru distribution event in the Southmost area of Brownsville. This event allowed the EnVision Center to assist individuals who are experiencing homelessness and low-income families. Through his hard work and dedication to his community, Andres raised awareness about food insecurity and food deserts while addressing the immediate challenges the community faces today.

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Kimberly
Ohio

"My time in DC meeting with Secretary Carson meant so much to me because we were doing more than just calling for change. We were helping to design a way to make that happen. As a former foster youth who has experienced homelessness at various stages in my life, this issue is incredibly personal for me. I'm deeply proud of the countless number of foster youths, who have demonstrated tremendous courage by using their voices to be the driving force that brought about this program. My advice to youth leaving the foster care system - you aren't defined by your past experiences. You are worthy of love, respect, and taking up space on this earth."

Kimberly is one of 60 former foster youth representing ACTION Ohio, who traveled to DC between 2013 and 2019 to partner with the National Center for Housing and Child Welfare (NCHCW) in pursuing national solutions for young people aging out of the foster care system and at risk of homelessness. In March 2019, ACTION Ohio and NCHCW met directly with Secretary Carson to present a proposal to house former foster youth. Within four months of their meeting, Secretary Carson launched the Foster to Youth Independence initiative, providing housing vouchers to public housing authorities to prevent and end homelessness among young adults who recently left the foster care system without a home. Since July 2019, HUD has awarded $5.4 million and 654 vouchers nationwide to assist young adults.

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Kimberly
Ohio

"My time in DC meeting with Secretary Carson meant so much to me because we were doing more than just calling for change. We were helping to design a way to make that happen. As a former foster youth who has experienced homelessness at various stages in my life, this issue is incredibly personal for me. I'm deeply proud of the countless number of foster youths, who have demonstrated tremendous courage by using their voices to be the driving force that brought about this program. My advice to youth leaving the foster care system - you aren't defined by your past experiences. You are worthy of love, respect, and taking up space on this earth."

Kimberly is one of 60 former foster youth representing ACTION Ohio, who traveled to DC between 2013 and 2019 to partner with the National Center for Housing and Child Welfare (NCHCW) in pursuing national solutions for young people aging out of the foster care system and at risk of homelessness. In March 2019, ACTION Ohio and NCHCW met directly with Secretary Carson to present a proposal to house former foster youth. Within four months of their meeting, Secretary Carson launched the Foster to Youth Independence initiative, providing housing vouchers to public housing authorities to prevent and end homelessness among young adults who recently left the foster care system without a home. Since July 2019, HUD has awarded $5.4 million and 654 vouchers nationwide to assist young adults.

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Lisa
Ohio

"When I aged out of foster care in 1989, there was no plan for my future. I started college at age 16 and was homeless within a year. At age 18, I moved into a dorm, and having housing helped me move forward and earn a Master's degree. Upon hearing from foster youth that this struggle was still happening, I wanted to empower them to share their insights to make a change. I am honored to have played a role in mobilizing my brothers and sisters of the system, and deeply proud of each of them. I am grateful with all my heart that HUD listens to those with lived experience, and in awe of how quickly Secretary Ben Carson moved forward to make FYI [Foster Youth to Independence] vouchers a national reality. What inspires me most about our group is the focus on coming up with proactive solutions. Statistics tell a story, and we can improve outcomes by addressing the factors that perpetuate them. Each of my brothers and sisters of the foster care system throughout the country have the ability to generate positive change. My advice to youth leaving the foster care system is to seek out trustworthy people and let them know when you need help. There are amazing allies out there and partnering with them can only improve our effectiveness."

Lisa is one of 60 former foster youth representing ACTION Ohio, who traveled to DC between 2013 and 2019 to partner with the National Center for Housing and Child Welfare (NCHCW) in pursuing national solutions for young people aging out of the foster care system and at risk of homelessness. In March 2019, ACTION Ohio and NCHCW met directly with Secretary Carson to present a proposal to house former foster youth. Within four months of their meeting, Secretary Carson launched the Foster to Youth Independence initiative, providing housing vouchers to public housing authorities to prevent and end homelessness among young adults who recently left the foster care system without a home. Since July 2019, HUD has awarded $5.4 million and 654 vouchers nationwide to assist young adults.

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Marcus
Ohio

"When I traveled to Washington, DC to discuss and propose housing solutions with Secretary Carson and legislators, it was one of the most meaningful things that I had ever done. It was an amazing opportunity to speak directly with the decision makers and create thoughtful change that would positively affect foster youth. I was inspired to help after visiting a statewide meeting. It was my first exposure to a platform that truly gave me a step to stand on and a microphone for my voice to be heard. Being a teenager in foster care your life is dictated by policy. These organizations [ACTION Ohio] gave me the opportunity to address flawed policies on a local and statewide level. This is where I was able to begin advocating for housing solutions and many other issues that foster youth experience during foster care and after emancipation. My advice for someone leaving foster care is - to be bold in everything you do. Be the best version of yourself and never accept the unacceptable."

Marcus is one of 60 former foster youth representing ACTION Ohio, who traveled to DC between 2013 and 2019 to partner with the National Center for Housing and Child Welfare (NCHCW) in pursuing national solutions for young people aging out of the foster care system and at risk of homelessness. In March 2019, ACTION Ohio and NCHCW met directly with Secretary Carson to present a proposal to house former foster youth. Within four months of their meeting, Secretary Carson launched the Foster to Youth Independence initiative, providing housing vouchers to public housing authorities to prevent and end homelessness among young adults who recently left the foster care system without a home. Since July 2019, HUD has awarded $5.4 million and 654 vouchers nationwide to assist young adults.

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Michael
Ohio

"I had traveled with ACTION Ohio several times over the years to propose housing solutions with my fellow brothers and sisters. The meeting with Secretary Ben Carson made me feel like our solutions for the first time were being recognized and that validated our efforts. As someone who has struggled with housing insecurity, it makes me hopeful to see housing authorities across America working with child welfare agencies creating FYI [Foster Youth to Independence] programs to serve other foster youth. I know housing resources are scarce and what makes me most proud about FYI is that it does not disenfranchise other vulnerable populations. No one gets bumped down on the waitlist for housing because of our efforts. I felt inspired to become involved because of the support and encouragement I experience from my chosen family. If not for the support of my chosen family and countless people along the way, I would never have made it. I wanted to continue to pay it forward to others so that they do not have to struggle in the same ways I did. My advice to youth leaving the foster care system - surround yourselves with people who believe in your greatness. No one succeeds alone, it takes a village to become stable. Find folks who encourage you to pursue your goals and can be there to help you when you need it."

Michael is one of 60 former foster youth representing ACTION Ohio, who traveled to DC between 2013 and 2019 to partner with the National Center for Housing and Child Welfare (NCHCW) in pursuing national solutions for young people aging out of the foster care system and at risk of homelessness. In March 2019, ACTION Ohio and NCHCW met directly with Secretary Carson to present a proposal to house former foster youth. Within four months of their meeting, Secretary Carson launched the Foster to Youth Independence initiative, providing housing vouchers to public housing authorities to prevent and end homelessness among young adults who recently left the foster care system without a home. Since July 2019, HUD has awarded $5.4 million and 654 vouchers nationwide to assist young adults.

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Natasha
Ohio

"When I traveled to Washington, D.C. to meet with Secretary Carson, I wanted to help lay a foundation to improve housing outcomes for my brothers and sisters. I wanted to help map out housing solutions for young people aging out of foster care. My biggest fear growing up was becoming homeless. Knowing I would have an opportunity to advocate for individuals that were just like me, made this my lifelong mission. My advice to youth leaving the foster care system - be your own best advocate. Only you can make the choice to know your value, share your voice, be a voice for yourself and then become a voice for others."

Natasha is one of 60 former foster youth representing ACTION Ohio, who traveled to DC between 2013 and 2019 to partner with the National Center for Housing and Child Welfare (NCHCW) in pursuing national solutions for young people aging out of the foster care system and at risk of homelessness. In March 2019, ACTION Ohio and NCHCW met directly with Secretary Carson to present a proposal to house former foster youth. Within four months of their meeting, Secretary Carson launched the Foster to Youth Independence initiative, providing housing vouchers to public housing authorities to prevent and end homelessness among young adults who recently left the foster care system without a home. Since July 2019, HUD has awarded $5.4 million and 654 vouchers nationwide to assist young adults.

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Elsa
Colorado

"Don't let your past define you. Don't make excuses from your past to not do good."

Elsa entered the foster care system by the time she reached third grade. Her mother struggled with mental illness, and she and her father, a former veteran, were in and out of homelessness when she was very young. As a result, she started dealing with anger issues at a young age, which made it difficult for her in the foster care system. About eight years ago, she was adopted, but after time, endured abuse at the hands of her adoptive guardian. She is now living with a very supportive foster family and just graduated from high school. She plans to begin college this year and will pursue her passion in singing, piano, and violin. Elsa is preparing to move into her new home with a Foster Youth to Independence (FYI) housing voucher, a new housing voucher program Secretary Carson launched in July 2019 to assist young people who are aging out of foster care and are at extreme risk of experiencing homelessness. Since July 2019, HUD has awarded $5.4 million and 654 vouchers nationwide to assist young adults.

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Zuheid
Bristol, CT

"Make the best of your current situation. Don't feel like it's your end game and strive for more. Set a goal that benefits you and your family. Have the passion to want more. By doing so you will come out of your current situation and overcome any difficulties that may arise in your journey."

Zuheid had a rough time as a single mom until she was able to secure an apartment through the Bristol Housing Authority (BHA). As a young mother, having a place to call her own meant she could focus on raising her daughter and returning to school to improve their quality of life. She eventually became a RN, made enough money to give up her Section 8 Voucher and became a first-time homeowner. The Family Self-Sufficiency program at BHA gave Zuheid inspiration and empowered her to succeed. The support from her FSS coordinator and hard work on Zuheid's part allowed her to reach her goal of self-sufficiency and homeownership.

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Darnel
Oklahoma City, OK

"As a property manager, I rented homes owned by my employer. I felt it was my obligation to rent to families fairly. Once I became aware that my employer was sexually harassing female tenants, I knew I had to help them because he was sexually harassing me. I contacted Metro Fair Housing Council of Oklahoma [MFHC], who made this situation their priority. They took legal action against someone who harassed female tenants for years. I am thankful for them. Without their assistance this property owner's sexual harassment would have continued."

HUD's Fair Housing Initiative Program (FHIP) participant Metropolitan Fair Housing Council of Oklahoma, Inc. (MFHC) assisted Darnel in her fight to stop the sexual harassment she was experiencing from her landlord. HUD recently awarded more than $38 million in FHIP grants to support the Metropolitan Fair Housing Council of Oklahoma and other FHIP agencies in serving their communities through fair housing education, awareness, and enforcement.

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Ge'Andra
Oklahoma City, OK

"Fair housing improves the lives of the individuals we serve by giving them the power to fight back. Many of our clients are members of marginalized groups and have been made to feel powerless. Our work empowers people and gives them access to legal representation and advocates who don't just care about the outcome of their case but are invested in them as people. When we learned of a landlord who was engaging in the unlawful practice of sexually harassing his tenants, we worked tirelessly to stop his predatory behavior and get justice for the women who he targeted and harassed. I'm grateful to be able to provide an invaluable service to our clients and am glad to be a member of the Metropolitan Fair Housing Council of Oklahoma team."

Ge'Andra is an attorney at the Metropolitan Fair Housing Council of Oklahoma, Inc. (MFHC) - participant of HUD's Fair Housing Initiative Program (FHIP). One of her notable accomplishments include serving as lead investigator and attorney liaison with MFHC's Cooperating Attorneys on a sexual harassment lawsuit settled in the United States District Court of the Western District of Oklahoma on December 7, 2017. She continues to assist complainants and survivors in their fight to stop sexual harassment in housing. HUD recently awarded more than $38 million in FHIP grants to support the Metropolitan Fair Housing Council of Oklahoma and other FHIP agencies in serving their communities through fair housing education, awareness, and enforcement.

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Mary
Oklahoma City, OK

"We didn't know the term 'fair housing' when I was growing up in a segregated city, living in public housing in the 1950's and 1960's, but I personally witnessed unfair treatment by landlords. I witnessed how educating tenants about civil rights empowered them to fight against discrimination and inspired me to believe in housing rights almost 50 years ago. Over the past 41 years I have seen fair housing education, community outreach and fair housing enforcement improve many hundreds of lives. Fair housing funding from HUD has allowed the Metropolitan Fair Housing Council to expand needed fair housing resources to Oklahomans alleging housing discrimination as we celebrate our 40th year of service."

Mary is the Executive Director of the Metropolitan Fair Housing Council of Oklahoma, Inc. (MFHC) - a participant of HUD's Fair Housing Initiative Program (FHIP). She grew up in a segregated city and the experience has driven her to assist complainants and survivors in their fight to stop sexual harassment in housing. HUD recently awarded more than $38 million in FHIP grants to support the Metropolitan Fair Housing Council of Oklahoma and other FHIP agencies in serving their communities through fair housing education, awareness, and enforcement.

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Benjamin
San Antonio, Texas

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Ray and René Raysor
Prince George's County, MD

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DaeJanae
Prince George's County, MD

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Kendunda
Meridian, MS

"I grew up in public housing in Meridian, Mississippi. I became a single mother at 18 and needed employment, skills, and my own place. I was able to move into my own public housing unit and later transitioned to the Housing Choice Voucher Program. The family self-sufficiency gave me the opportunity to return to school and get my Bachelor's degree. I'm now working on my Master's degree. My plans are to relocate to Texas and become a licensed therapist. I hope to increase my income to reach the point of not needing housing assistance. I recommend to anyone in a similar situation to work hard to reach their dreams. We can do it."

The Meridian Housing Authority's (MHA) Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) Program provides job training, education programs, and money management to enrollees. HUD-assisted individuals enrolled in the program outline goals they will accomplish through the program. MHA has participated in the FSS Program since 2006, they received $113,130 in funding for FY 2018.

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T'Keyah
Midwest City, OK

"Homeownership became a major goal for me after I survived a fire in my apartment complex. The fire accidentally started in another unit, but I lost everything. I started saving my tax refunds toward a down payment and then heard about HUD programs that helped me qualify for a mortgage. I'm the first homeowner in my family since my grandmother. This has been wonderful especially for my daughter. Every chance she gets she says, 'Momma, I love our house.' A year after moving into our own home, it's still a great feeling."

Through HUD's Housing Counseling and HOME programs, the Community Action Agency of Oklahoma City and Oklahoma/Canadian Counties provides Homebuyer Education Training, down payment and closing costs assistance to aspiring homebuyers like T'Keyah. They promote self-sufficiency and prepare families to become responsible homeowners.

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Cedric
Washington, DC

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Porsche
Washington, DC

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Gregory
Washington, DC

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Danielle
Washington, DC

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Maria
Providence, RI

"Growing up in Guatemala, I didn't think much about technology, but in the U.S. I discovered it was essential. Living in public housing gave me access to training programs to learn about using technology and prepared me for a career in the field."

Maria left her home in Guatemala six years ago and moved to Providence, RI to be closer to loved ones. She wanted to be able to provide for herself and her family, and that's when she got connected to the Providence Housing Authority (PHA). Maria was approved for a unit in public housing and through PHA's Jobs Plus program, enrolled in programs such as digital literacy, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) and classes toward her GED. Maria is happy to share that she is now employed as a mentor for students in digital literacy classes and plans to finish her GED and find a full-time job that allows her to apply her computer skills.

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Jeanie
Pueblo, CO

"I grew up wondering if we were going to have a roof over our heads, and I never wanted my children to experience homelessness. Don't give up on your dreams. If I can make mine happen, so can you."

From the time she was a child, Jeanie dreamed of becoming a homeowner. Throughout her adolescence, she experienced homelessness, moving from city to city with her mom who struggled with substance abuse. Now that she's an adult, Jeanie is working to make her dream come true. Through HUD's HOME program, she received down payment assistance from the Colorado Housing Assistance Corporation (CHAC) and learned some valuable lessons in her first-time homeownership classes. Jeanie and her family are now enjoying their forever home and are planning some home projects for the coming years. CHAC is a HUD-approved housing counseling agency that provides pre-purchase counseling in both English and Spanish. They are also approved by HUD to provide down payment assistance to homebuyers utilizing FHA-insured first mortgages to finance their home purchases.

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Taisacan
Las Vegas, NV

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Charles
Lewiston, ME

"I have struggled with addiction since I was around 12 years old. Recently I left that life behind and I am going on my sixth year of sobriety. Through the recovery process I submitted my name and was approved for public housing."

Charles is from Lewiston, Maine and is the father of two boys. He's never had a place of his own and lacked stability for most of his life. When he was connected to the Lewiston Housing Authority (LHA), he was able to apply and be approved for a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher. With the help of the LHA, Charles has enrolled his children in programs like Promise Early Education Program and receives items from the food pantry food truck that regularly visits his neighborhood. Charles looks forward to continuing his growth with LHA and providing for himself and his children.

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Dianne
DeFuniak, FL

"As the economy changed and I was getting older, I could no longer find good jobs. I could barely find a part time job."

Dianne grew up in Florida with her five brothers and sisters. After her mother left her and her siblings at the age of 5, Dianne's grandparents stepped up to raise them. As Dianne continued into adulthood, she was unable to finish school which put her at a disadvantage to make ends meet. She used a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher and was able to leave the program and support herself and her family in 2012. Due to medical challenges Dianne has had to resort to part time work and is receiving services for Walton Housing Authority again. However, Dianne has been able to use Walton's resources to finish high school at the age of 61 and was inducted into the National Adult Education Honor Society. Dianne is looking forward to attending an LPN program so she can serve as a nurse.

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Adaora
College Park, MD

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Michelle
Fayetteville, AR

"I was in a car accident that changed everything for me. After weeks in the hospital, in clinics and in physical therapy, I had to give up my service dog and became homeless. While still in a lot of pain, scared, and depressed about my situation, I was referred to the Salvation Army where I was given a bed and met a case manager from 7hills Homeless Center. Zach, a case manager at 7hills, found me an apartment and helped me to get three months of rental assistance from a 7hills' Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG). When I walked into that apartment, it was like a miracle. I had been so scared and depressed, but the fact that Zach and 7hills stuck with me, now I can see some real opportunities. Being homeless is a real life or death situation -- the work of 7hills and other homeless agencies that receive HUD funds truly does matter."

The 7hills HOPE program provides community-based rapid re-housing and homelessness prevention services to homeless and near-homeless Veterans like Michelle. Temporary financial assistance is supplemented with wrap-around case management to ensure participants' success post-program. The primary goal of the HOPE program is to help people secure a stable place to call home.

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Warren
San Francisco, CA

"I lost my job and apartment and became homeless for the first time but not the last. I came to understand what it felt like to be homeless and how one thinks when they are homeless. It's a horrible feeling. You feel helpless and alone."

Warren grew up bouncing from home to home in the Bay Area and never really had a place to call his own. After losing his job and then his apartment, Warren experienced homelessness. After many challenges, Warren was able to enroll himself and his family in the Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) program with the San Francisco Housing Authority. Warren is a former voucher recipient and is now able to provide for himself and his family. Within the next five years, Warren hopes to be paying his mortgage on his own home. Warren credits HUD's FSS program for providing him with the tools he needs to be successful. In 2018, HUD invested $75 million in the FSS program to help people like Warren become self-sufficient.

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Jessica
Bremerton, WA

"When I moved to Washington from California, I was able to live in a place where I could afford to buy a home and be successful in my career because I wasn't struggling to make ends meet. I was part of a wonderful small community and it was one of these participants who connected me to the Community Frameworks Built in Bremerton program. The HUD SHOP and HOME programs helped make my dream of homeownership a reality. The sweat equity binds you to the house and helps to really make it your own. It allowed me to get familiar with the home, make it my own, and feel pride in working hard. Without the down payment assistance, I never could have afforded to buy a home."

Funded through grants from HUD's Self-Help Homeownership Opportunity Program (SHOP) and HOME program, Community Frameworks' Bremerton and Kitsap County Homeownership Program offer affordable homeownership opportunities to qualified buyers within Bremerton city limits and throughout Kitsap County, Washington. These programs play a key role in helping people, like Jessica, achieve their dream of owning a home.

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Kristy
Griffin, GA

"Low income housing does not have to be your final choice, and the cycle of dependency and generational poverty can end now."

Kristy was born and raised in Georgia and received housing assistance for herself and her three kids. After setting goals to become a homeowner, Kristy moved into HUD assisted housing, and enrolled herself in HUD's Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) program. Through the FSS program, Kristy gained life skills and worked with a financial coach to help her purchase her first home. Kristy became a homeowner through the Griffin Housing Authority's partnership with the Department of Community Affairs' Community HOME Investment Program (CHIP). Kristy hopes to continue as a successful homeowner and strives for her three sons to be successful in school.

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Sharon
Albuquerque, NM

"It was very rewarding to have the house keys handed to us. That little home is an entire blessing."

As a Realty Specialist for the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Sharon knew the necessary steps she had to take to become a homeowner. Through HUD's Section 184 Loan Guarantee Program, Sharon and her family made their dream of homeownership a reality and purchased a three-bedroom home in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Section 184 is a home mortgage program for American Indian and Alaska Native families, Alaska villages, tribes or tribally designated housing entities. One of the key factors of financing under Section 184 is the low-down payment of 2.25 percent. The additional money Sharon and her family saved allowed them to purchase major appliances and make small renovations to their home. Since the program's inception in 1992, HUD's Office of Native American Programs has guaranteed nearly 43,000 loans providing $7.3 billion investment in Native communities.

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Dylan and Khadine
Jersey City, NJ

"It's easier to do things that a normal teenager does - like study and hang out with friends - when you have a permanent place to live. When we came into the program with WomenRising, my grades skyrocketed. Seeing my family become vulnerable really motivated me. I live in a house full of strong, independent women that never took handouts from anybody, so seeing them reach out made me rethink my entire outlook on life. Just because you're going through an obstacle in your life right now doesn't mean you're always going to be in it."

WomenRising's Village of Families program provides housing and case management services to those in need. Because of WomenRising, Dylan's mom, Khadine, was able to find a home for her family, which gave Dylan a safe space to study. Dylan, a once struggling student, was inducted into the Honor Society and accepted to 18 colleges for admission in the Fall. His goals are to attend Harvard Law School and for his mother to receive a college degree. In 2017, HUD awarded over $2 billion to Continuum of Care programs across the country, including WomenRising, to help people like Dylan and Khadine find a permanent place to call home.

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Chervonte
Marietta, GA

"My personal journey with the housing authority began when I was a high school senior. I was 17, pregnant, and just hoping not to become a statistic. The Family Self-Sufficiency Program [FSS] opened doors to knowledge on credit, banking, finances, small business creation, higher education, parenting, and job skills through workshops offered to us. The goal setting aspect of the FSS Program was key for me. You sit down and ask yourself, 'What do I need for my life 5 years from now and what do I want for my children?' Then you have the accountability and access to resources provided by the FSS program to help you make those goals happen. I'm a proud FSS graduate and a proud homeowner! I can now ask myself, 'What do I want my next 5 years to look like?'"

Chervonte grew up in public housing in inner-city Detroit. As an adult, she moved into public housing in Marietta, Georgia and applied for a Section 8 voucher. Once she received a voucher, she moved into a beautiful apartment and enrolled in the Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) program through the Marietta Housing Authority. Chervonte is now a 6th grade teacher and a homeowner. HUD invested $75 million in FSS in 2017 to help people like Chervonte achieve their dream of homeownership.

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Brenda
Marietta, GA

"I was working two jobs and trying to keep my head above water when I got the news that I received a Section 8 Voucher and it's been a blessing ever since. In the FSS [Family Self Sufficiency] Program, the workshops help a lot because the people care and want to help you succeed. They had a counselor who came in and helped me after losing my mother and son. It's awesome to see how involved HUD is in our growth and our goals. In the next five years, I'm going back to college to study sociology and communications to encourage and empower others. I'm also writing a book and I want to buy a house. It's never too late to go back to school or to ask for help. Without the FSS Program, I wouldn't know half of the things I know now."

The Marietta Housing Authority's Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program provides job training, education programs, and money management to enrollees. HUD-assisted individuals enrolled in the program outline goals they will accomplish through the program. Brenda hopes to use her degrees to help others who feel as hopeless as she once was and to write a book. HUD invested $75 million in FSS in 2017 to help people like Brenda to further their education.

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Theo
Oklahoma City, OK

"I joined the Army in 1980 and served nine years with combat service support. I experienced some traumatic life events that caused me to separate from my support systems. I became homeless and lived on the streets of Oklahoma City for fourteen years. I got involved with the Homeless Alliance who helped me get a Section 8 voucher and moved into my new apartment in October. It's been one of the best experiences I've had. Being a voucher recipient has given me a better appreciation for the services available and allowed me to move forward with my life after being homeless for so long."

The Homeless Alliance is a nonprofit organization which works with public and private partners to end local homelessness. They have a Day Shelter which provides healthcare services, budgeting assistance, legal support, and classes to help people like Theo move toward self-sufficiency. Theo is especially thankful for his case manager who helped him achieve a Section 8 voucher. HUD gave the Homeless Alliance $2,626,784 in 2018 to help people like Theo climb the ladder of opportunity.

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Raquel
Oklahoma City, OK

"HUD and the Metropolitan Fair Housing Council of Oklahoma [MFHC] helped to improve my life and the lives of my children. Being a single mother, the worst fear is not feeling safe in your home and not being able to protect your family. MFHC took a stand with me to stop sexual harassment from landlords and I will continue to stand and fight for woman's rights."

HUD's Fair Housing Initiative Program (FHIP) participant Metropolitan Fair Housing Council of Oklahoma, Inc. (MFHC) assisted Raquel in her fight to stop the sexual harassment she was experiencing from her landlord. HUD provided $37 million in FHIP grants in 2018 to support the Metropolitan Fair Housing Council of Oklahoma and other FHIP agencies in serving their communities through fair housing education, awareness, and enforcement.

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Rigel
Columbia, MO

"As a lawyer, I have litigated sexual harassment cases under the Fair Housing Act. I was privileged to see many brave women come forward, make their voices heard, and get justice. As an academic, I am continuing to gather the stories of women who have been sexually harassed by their landlords, so I know there is still much work to be done."

Professor Rigel Oliveri is a nationally recognized expert on fair housing law and has assisted HUD's Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) by encouraging others to file housing discrimination complaints. FHEO and its Fair Housing Assistance Program partner agencies receive more than 8,000 complaints alleging discriminatory harassment or other forms of housing discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and family status. Learn more about your fair housing rights at HUD.gov/FairHousing.

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Laura
Los Angeles, CA

"There are many unsung heroes in the world of fair housing, but the countless positive outcomes that come from our work cannot be achieved without the complainants' willingness to come forward and take that courageous first step. It seems these days, many outside forces conspire to destroy trust in our institutions, but I know that confidence is restored in our communities - one case at a time, one person at a time - when our work touches the lives of those we serve. I am humbled by the role I have as a fair housing investigator."

Laura is a fair housing investigator in HUD's Los Angeles Field Office. She recently worked to settle a sexual harassment in housing case. HUD's Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity and its Fair Housing Assistance Program partner agencies receive over 8,000 complaints alleging discriminatory harassment or other forms of housing discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and family status. Visit HUD.gov/FairHousing to learn more about your fair housing rights.

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Khristen
North Carolina

"I was a young mother, alone, and in need of assistance. I was given approval to live in a home that was supposed to be a sanctuary for me and my children. We were grateful that we finally qualified for housing. Unfortunately, the home inspector made it crystal clear that unless I complied with his sexual advances, he would use his power not to sign off on my voucher for housing. I chose not to remain silent about this injustice and to uplift my voice. I knew I wasn't alone. So many others had been abused and violated like me. Remaining silent would have given strength to the abusers, but speaking out gave us power over them. It was my duty to speak out for others who have and may be abused. Thanks to the Fair Housing Act, we have the freedom not to allow predators to hold power over us."

HUD's Fair Housing Initiative Program (FHIP) participant Fair Housing Project - Legal Aid of North Carolina assisted Khristen to stop the sexual harassment she was experiencing from a housing inspector. HUD has provided $37 million in FHIP grants to support the Fair Housing Project - Legal Aid of North Carolina and other FHIP agencies in serving their communities through fair housing education, awareness, and enforcement.

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Ra'Kenya
Greenville, SC

"If I were to write a book about my life, I would name it "potholes." Potholes are those unexpected things in life that you don't see coming, and that you can't control, until you hit them. Sometimes we can get too comfortable in those potholes, but we have to keep walking. Don't stop living. Don't give up on a better quality of life just because you've hit some potholes and don't be afraid to ask for help."

After quitting her job due to an illness, Ra'Kenya began having financial difficulties and had to foreclose on her home and move in with her grandmother. She applied for and was approved for a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher with the Greenville Housing Authority, found a place of her own, and was able to get back on her feet. Ra'Kenya is now serving as the Resident Commissioner with the housing authority - helping others who shared similar experiences. She also recently enrolled at Greenville Technical College and will pursue a degree in Human Services.

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Chiquita
Savannah, GA

"I've come a long way and accomplished a lot but I'm hoping to further my education and eventually get my doctoral degree. Looking back on my journey as a teen mom - I say to other young women, don't give up. Keep faith, anything is possible. Look beyond the big picture because there is always a bigger picture!"

After falling on hard times, Chiquita applied for a Housing Choice Voucher and enrolled in the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program through the Housing Authority of Savannah. The skills she learned from the FSS program equipped her to earn a degree from Savannah Technical College. In 2016, she became a homeowner and earned her Bachelor's in Education from Ashford University. HUD invested $75 million in the Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) program in 2017 to help people like Chiquita reach their goals.

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Sam
Loveland, CO

"We live in a country full of abundance. We have so many resources available, and it's about where we choose to direct those resources. The work I have been privileged to do has helped improve lives. I am proud of the success of the Loveland Housing Authority and the innovative culture my staff and I have been able to foster that motivates us to provide housing for the people we serve."

After 42 years of public service at the Loveland Housing Authority, Sam retired from his position as Executive Director in November 2018. He began as a Program Manager in 1976 and was appointed Executive Director in 1981. The housing authority administers HUD's Section 8 program as well as Tax Credit Properties and affordable housing programs and services. Sam considers Willow Place, a 200-unit development which provides affordable housing for low income families and veterans to be one of the Housing Authority's greatest accomplishments. Funding for the project was secured through HUD's Home Investment Partnership and Community Development Block Grant funding. Dedicated partners like Sam make it possible for HUD to provide housing assistance to millions of low-income Americans across the country.

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Danica
Long Beach, CA

"Growing up in Windsor Hills, (a Los Angeles suburban neighborhood), never did I imagine I would be assisting low-income families and senior citizens find housing. I'm a single mother of two and I realize how important affordable housing is, not only to the community, but to the well-being and health of the families that live here."

Century Villages at Cabrillo (CVC) provides 662 units of permanent supportive housing. Every year, CVC provides housing for 2,199 people, including 1,042 veterans and 600 families with children. The 27-acre campus has benefited from $66 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and nearly $18 million in HUD Capital Investment.

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Monique
Long Beach, CA

"Being here has helped me to co-exist with others because of the variety of people. At first I was skeptical about it, but it helped me grow as a person - go to groups, branch out, be able to help people, learn how people are different."

A resident, volunteer and leader at Century Villages at Cabrillo (CVC), Monique leads the Self-Enhancement support group. The group is open to residents who want to look and feel their best. Participants can do their nails and pick up affordable ways to pamper themselves while learning about the importance of self-care. CVC provides 662 units of permanent supportive housing across the community. Every year, CVC provides housing for 2,199 people including 1,042 Veterans and 600 families with children. The 27-acre campus has benefited from $66 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and nearly $18 million in HUD Capital Investment.

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Luz
Puerto Rico

"During the hurricane, we moved from room to room as the storm tore off the roof; finally, after the bathroom was gone, we took refuge in the car. Everything was lost."

Luz and her husband Santos lost the home that they had built together in Cupey, San Juan, Puerto Rico during Hurricane Maria in September 2017. After their home was destroyed, Luz and Santos sought help from a FEMA Disaster Recovery Center. They met with a HUD representative there who told them about St. Mary's Home for the Elderly where they moved after the storm. St. Mary's is one of 72 privately owned multifamily properties that serve low-income seniors in Puerto Rico. HUD has allocated $20 billion in Community Development Block Grants-Disaster Recovery funding to help Puerto Rico recover after the 2017 hurricanes.

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Shimelis
Cambridge, MA

"My wife and I were both born in Ethiopia. We had the chance to come to the United States through a special visa program. It was a hard decision to leave but we knew that in America there is freedom and opportunity. When we came here, we both were able to find work but it was still hard to make ends meet. Cambridge Housing Authority helped us afford a place to live and also offered us the chance to participate in the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program. I got to work with a financial coach at a local nonprofit, Compass Working Capital, to learn more about how to become more financially secure and work toward my financial goals. The program has helped us to build savings that we hope to use one day to buy a house. I am now saving so that my children can one day attend college. The FSS program has been very good for our family. Before this, I didn't have any idea how to save or how to buy a house. Now, with this program, I feel supported to reach my goals."

Cambridge Housing Authority's Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program partners with Compass Working Capital, a local non-profit which provides incentive-based savings and financial coaching. This partnership provides HUD-assisted individuals with the resources to build assets, achieve their financial goals, and become financially secure. Shimelis was paired with a financial mentor through the program who helped him develop a savings plan while teaching him crucial money management skills. Cambridge Housing Authority receives about $87 million from HUD per year for their FSS programs.

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Ayana
Edinburg, TX

"Pick a word and let that word drive you. My three words would be believe, tenacious, and reliable. My journey started with the word believe-I had to work on believing in myself. When I was raising a son while studying to become a physician's assistant, my word was tenacious-I learned what it means to be unstoppable and to live boldly. Now, my word is reliable. I am focused on being grateful for the people who supported me, giving back to my community who helped me up when I needed it, and reaching out to those who tried to discourage me to let them know that they too can accomplish their dreams."

The Edinburg Housing Authority's (EHA) Section 8 housing voucher program helps people like Ayana pay their rent. The program serves low-income families, seniors, and persons with disabilities by subsidizing the cost of the private housing market. Ayana and her son moved into Section 8 housing when she started PA school. Once she graduated, she became self-sufficient and was able to move beyond Section 8 assistance. HUD invested $75 million in the Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) program in 2017 which partners with voucher recipients like Ayana to help them become self-sufficient.

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Sandra
New Albany, IN

"In 2008 my life was turned upside down. I was suddenly in a position where I had to step up to the plate and provide for my two small grandchildren. I had to learn all about school supplies, homework, and after school programs. Not long after I moved into the New Albany Housing Authority neighborhood, I found myself walking down the sidewalk of the Family Self-Sufficiency building--I honestly felt my head whirling with doubt and fear. I walked in, sat down at a computer, and found that I was in the right place. I joined the FSS program and was able to take excellent care of my family. After a few years, my daughter was able to come home and be with her kids. I knew it was now time for me to start the life I had put on hold. Once again, I found myself in a paid volunteering role at the FSS office. Well, I did such a great job that when the New Albany Housing Authority had an opening, I applied and was hired! I now work full-time in the maintenance office as a clerk. I LOVE my job and my coworkers!"

The New Albany Housing Authority (NAHA) participates in HUD's Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program which provides HUD-assisted individuals with the resources needed to gain employment that will lead to economic independence. Sandra began volunteering at the front desk in the New Albany FSS office and was able to attend workshops that gave her valuable job training skills. She was eventually hired to work at the NAHA office full time and has been in that role since March of 2017. HUD invested $75 million in FSS in 2017 to help people like Sandra find a job that they love.

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Steve
Butte, MT

"For over two decades, I've been helping the homeless in the rough-and-tumble historic mining town of Butte, Montana. While the community's economic base and population has declined substantially over the past several decades, there has been an increase in poverty and homelessness. As an employee of Action, one of my main roles is to help the community's neediest residents find decent, safe affordable housing, which can often be a tremendous challenge. I believe that one of the keys to successfully getting people into permanent housing is by building strong partnerships with other organizations. I've seen how once people have stable housing, they're able to be successful in other parts of their lives. This is definitely one of the most rewarding parts of my work!"

Steve works for Action Inc, a HUD-funded organization which helps people who are homeless or struggling to pay their rent in Southwest Montana. In his role, Steve runs a transitional homeless shelter which was recently awarded additional Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding from HUD.

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Denise
Bristol, VA

"My daughter and I lived with my parents for a while but we all needed more space and it was time to move on. I had to make a home for my daughter and show her how to be independent. Thanks to HUD, I'm more confident in myself now and know that I have a bright future. My daughter is 21 and about to enter the military. She is ready to fly!"

Denise enrolled in the Family Self Sufficiency program through the Bristol Redevelopment and Housing Authority. For the last 12 years, the Family Self-Sufficiency Program at the Bristol Redevelopment and Housing Authority has been helping residents establish goals to make a better life for themselves and their children. The program is open to HUD-assisted families and provides skills training, financial education, and other services-including help with securing a job. Denise currently serves on the Board of Commissioners for the Housing Authority and is working towards purchasing her own home.

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Ketty
Bowling Green, KY

"I was born and raised in Congo, Africa. As a young woman, I was married, a homeowner, and the mother of nine beautiful children. When I made the journey to the United States, I became a single mother with nowhere to go. In the beginning, I was paying over $700 a month on rent and attempting to single-handedly provide for my children. That burden became too heavy when the doctors discovered a blood clot in my lungs which stopped me from being able to work. I prayed to God for his protection as I was out of a job and heading towards homelessness. I reached out to my local housing authority. There, I found more than I had prayed for. I received shelter for my family, guidance, and was introduced to programs that provided me with a plan to regain my self-sufficiency. We moved into a housing authority residence and I had set a goal for myself: to once again become a homeowner. I am part of the Reach Higher Program> and on the road to independence. Someday, I want to open up my own business to provide others like me with the aid and support that saved my life."

Ketty is currently going through the Live the Dream program with the Housing Authority of Bowling Green in the hopes of achieving homeownership. The program educates potential first-time homebuyers on the process of purchasing a home. Due to the success of its self-sufficiency programs, the Housing Authority of Bowling Green recently received a national designation as a HUD EnVision Center. Some of the housing authority's on site resources include a tutoring center, greenhouse, woodworking shop, clothing bank, and even a Girl Scout Troop.

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Salvador
Santa Ana, CA

"Since I began receiving housing assistance, I have accomplished many goals. I have become a U.S. citizen and I have gained more skills at my job. I am looking to the future and hope that one day I can become a homeowner. I had never imagined the possibility of owning my own home."

Salvador immigrated to the United States from Mexico when he was 15. He later married and struggled to find an affordable place for his family to live. They applied for a Housing Choice Voucher and were put on a waiting list. Once he received a voucher, Salvador joined the Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) program through the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Ana, which connects HUD-assisted individuals with the resources, training, and opportunities needed to achieve self-sufficiency. HUD invested $75 million in FSS in 2017 to help people like Salvador climb the ladder of opportunity.

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Michael
Chicago, IL

"I'd been into drugs and in and out of jail for thirty years. I lived in different people's houses for short times then moved on. A Safe Haven helped me a lot. They opened their doors and helped me get my life back on track. The environment gives me better insight to help me better my life if that's what I want to do. ASH threw me a rope to climb out of a deep hole. I encourage other guys to stay off drugs and live life on life's terms. I work here part-time and I hope I can get full time work here soon. A Safe Haven saved my life; I know that's for sure."

A Safe Haven in Chicago serves as a shelter and support center for people struggling with drug abuse. The Chicago branch was recently named a HUD EnVision Center. Individuals are coached through recovery and supported on their journey to self-sufficiency. Over the last ten years, ASH has received over $10.3 million in funding through HUD's Continuum of Care program and $2 million through the Community Development Block Grant program. To learn more about ASH, please visit: www.ASafeHaven.org

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Marrea
Chester, PA

"I was a resident of William Penn Homes in the city of Chester for 18 years. When my family became homeless due to a fire, HUD offered us a home. This was a pivotal moment for my family. My mother no longer had to worry about her children being cold and not having hot water to shower. She instilled structure, rules and values in our home. She always considered public housing to be a temporary means for her children. As she gained more knowledge and exposure outside of the housing development, she began to understand the endless possibilities for her children. After graduating high school, she gave us six months to go to college or to get a job. Both options were intended to establish a plan of action for us to become self-sufficient and independent. When I graduated from college with a Bachelor's degree in political science, I began working and moved out of the housing development. Now, I'm passionate about helping people achieve their personal and professional goals. Recently, I was honored by Main Line Today magazine as a '2018 Healthcare Hero' for developing programs that help underserved members of our community access jobs in healthcare."

Marrea Walker-Smith is the President and CEO of Creative Education Opportunities, a virtual and on-site training company. She partnered with the Chester Housing Authority in Chester, Pennsylvania, to launch a resident training academy for public housing residents. In Fiscal Year 2018, HUD awarded $8.3 million to Chester Housing Authority to support families living in this development.

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Heidi
Ogden, UT

"This is the only way I could have ever purchased a home. Without the Down Payment Assistance program, I would still be renting. In June, I moved into my three-bedroom, two-bath home with my daughter and son - one son lives on his own. I plan to take courses on home repair and I'm looking forward to really 'making it mine' with family photos, a nice patio, and a grill for barbecues with friends and family. For anyone who wants to own a home - keep trying and never give up, but also be prepared, because homeownership is a big responsibility!"

A single mom of three, Heidi rented a house in Ogden, Utah for 15 years. She knew she wanted to be a homeowner but struggled for many years to save money and repair her credit and did not have any family members that could help her. Heidi's dream of being a homeowner was turned into reality when she worked with housing counselors and found out she qualified for the Ogden Down Payment Assistance Program.

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William
Weymouth, MA

"I moved into a friend's van in his driveway and I thought that was my bottom. I'll never forget it, sitting there in the sleeping bag in a white van, hearing the traffic go by at night, in tears some nights. I was waiting for a call the next day from either Father Bill's & MainSpring or the Department of Veterans Affairs to say, 'we have something for you.' I made some good inroads getting my own apartment, I worked hard, I did what the staff told me to do and stayed out of trouble. I was still a dad at the same time, saw my kids when I could. The best part was that I did it all on my own. Nobody handed it to me. When I got that phone call, 'Your voucher is in for VASH,' I think I went to my room and cried. I didn't imagine this ever happening, and here I am today sitting in a beautiful apartment. It's exciting-- I love my life today."

William, a Vietnam War veteran, became homeless in 2016 after several setbacks, including an addiction to the opioid he was prescribed for an injury. For several weeks, the United States Air Force veteran who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder, had to sleep in a friend's van. Father Bill's & MainSpring, a leading non-profit organization in Southern Massachusetts, came to William's aid, moving him into one of the agency's supportive housing units for veterans. He started working with a case manager who connected him with a HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) voucher. In 2017, William used his voucher to move into his own new apartment, where his children and grandchildren can now visit him.

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Laura and Jaime
Brownsville, TX

"My top priority was finding a handicap-friendly place for my son, Jaime, to live. The Buena Vida Public Housing Development has been that and so much more. I was able to sign up for a citizenship class through Buena Vida, which led to me becoming a U.S. citizen in April. All I wanted was an accessible home for my son-I never imagined that it would change my life too."

The Housing Authority of the City of Brownsville was awarded a Choice Neighborhood Planning Grant for the Buena Vida facility in 2016. HUD's Choice Neighborhood Planning Grant program equips local leaders to create comprehensive plans to transform their local communities. This planning process led to the creation of several new programs including a partnership with the non-profit Proyecto Juan Diego, which allowed Laura to achieve U.S. citizenship.

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Tonia
Salt Lake City, UT

"I finally have a home in a nice area that is quiet and calm. The housing choice voucher program made it a little bit easier for me to raise three kids as a single mom."

When Tonia moved to Salt Lake City, Utah from Dallas, Texas, she was faced with unstable employment and housing, moving frequently for many years. After waiting nearly three years, she finally moved off the waiting list for a Housing Choice Voucher. She has a steady job working at a family shelter in Midville, Utah and enjoys spending time at home with her kids and her five grandkids.

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Lisa
Chicago, IL

"After being on a (housing) voucher since 1999, I made a conscious decision to re-evaluate my assets-then I realized I did not have any to evaluate. My fear of letting the program go had hindered me from obtaining any. But, my self-analysis allowed me to eliminate my fears and set a goal. I wanted to show my five children that, although you may have obstacles, trials and setbacks, you do not have to allow your current situation to define your future. Two years later, everything is different. On February 20, I closed on my own home. I graduated from the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program in June. And in December I will have my Master's in Addiction Studies. I truly appreciate all the help, but I am so happy to be free."

The Housing Authority of Cook County participates in HUD's Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program, which aims to help people become financially independent. As part of FSS, participants establish goals, obtain employment, and move towards housing independence. When they complete these objectives, they have access to an escrow account which they can use to achieve their goals. The House Authority of Cook County's FSS program received $277,476 from HUD in 2018 to help people like Lisa become a homeowner.

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Shirley
Jackson, MS

"I grew up right here in Jackson, Mississippi. We bought the house in 1992 and it was already old. When I heard about the HOME program through the Mississippi Housing Partnership, I decided to give it a try. The company that did the renovation was such a blessing. They packed the whole house, put everything in a truck, took it to storage, and when they finished the remodel, put everything right back where it belonged. My home is now so beautiful, it makes me feel like a Queen. If someone is going to have their home go through a total rehab with a program like this, I would say be honest, be kind, and be patient. All good things take time."

The Mississippi Housing Partnership (MHP), in collaboration with the City of Jackson, administers the Jackson Gateway Project, which is funded via HUD's HOME Investment Partnership Grant. The Jackson Gateway Project is a comprehensive rehabilitation program for owner-occupied properties located in a specific area of West Jackson along the Capitol Street corridor. The property must be the primary place of residence for which the homeowner must provide proof of ownership and meet income requirements per HUD guidelines. In 2016, MHP successfully rehabbed eight owner-occupied properties, which added value to the homes and to the communities in general. Cost of renovation for Shirley's home was over $126,000, which includes relocation, storage, moving costs, and utility reconnection fees. The Jackson Gateway Project helped bring Shirley's dream home to life.

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KiAndra
Louisville, KY

"My struggle with homelessness began when my mother and I got into an altercation over money. The cops were called, and my mother immediately put me out on the streets. I began my search for shelter at the Salvation Army. I then moved to the Louisville Safe Place. After that, I unfortunately found myself homeless. Once I became pregnant with my daughter, I sought out a semi-permanent housing voucher through HUD. The department pays for half of my rent, allowing me to focus on my daughter and my studies. I hope to complete my bachelor's degree soon and find work with The Coalition, so I can give back to the institutions that saved me. If you are struggling with homelessness, never give up. You have to want independence for yourself and you have to be patient on your journey to self-sufficiency."

KiAndra has been helped by Louisville's Coalition for the Homeless. The Coalition serves over 1,100 homeless individuals each year. HUD awarded $2.03 billion to its Continuum of Care programs across the country in 2017 to help people like KiAndra get a fresh start.

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James
Chicago, IL

"I was once a student athlete with a lot of hope for my future. Unfortunately, drugs took a hold of my life after an injury ended my collegiate career. It was easy to quickly become addicted to a number of substances and I soon spiraled into a life of crime to sustain my newfound lifestyle. I experienced the trials of homelessness and later the realities of prison. I found A Safe Haven through a court order that changed my life. I went into the program with a drive and determination to finally get my life back on track. I participated in every program I could and worked to be free of my drug addiction. A Safe Haven allowed me to once again envision a life for myself and be hopeful about the future. Currently, I work part-time at A Safe Haven and hope to eventually become a case aid at the institution, so I can help others like me regain their independence. It all started for me at A Safe Haven, and I want to give that fresh start to others."

A Safe Haven in Chicago serves as a shelter and support center for people struggling with drug abuse - the Chicago branch was recently named a HUD EnVision Center. Individuals are coached through recovery and supported on their journey to self-sufficiency. Over the last ten years, ASH has received over $10.3 million in funding through HUD's Continuum of Care program and $2 million through the Community Development Block Grant program. To learn more about ASH, please visit: www.ASafeHaven.org

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Stephanie
Bakersfield, CA

"For a long time, I lived on foods stamps and government programs. I was comfortable with my life until I hit a low point -- I started struggling to pay my bills and keep a roof over my head. I heard about HUD's Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program and decided to give it a try. They helped me set goals to get a job, fix my credit score, and become self-sufficient. Well, I got a job and learned how to save up my money and graduated from the program last spring. Now, I'm giving back by using my ministerial license to help other women realize that it isn't too late for them either."

The Housing Authority of the County of Kern administers HUD's Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) program which connects HUD-assisted families with the resources, skills and opportunities needed to achieve self-sufficiency. HUD invested $75 million in FSS in 2017 to help people like Stephanie realize their potential.

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Brianna
Bakersfield, CA

"Growing up I didn't really have a 'normal' home. I got pregnant when I was 16 and dropped out of high school. When I turned 18, I applied for public housing. I enrolled in the FSS Program and set goals for the first time. I completed my G.E.D. and enrolled in college where I am currently getting my degree in Business Administration while working part time. My next goal was to move out of government housing. I applied for a home loan and was approved. The first thing I did was call my FSS coordinator because I was overwhelmed. She reminded me that I had been saving money so that I could buy my own house. In August, I became a homeowner. I'm thankful I didn't let my circumstances keep me from my goal of homeownership."

The Housing Authority of the County of Kern administers HUD's Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) Program which connects HUD-assisted families with the resources, skills and opportunities needed to achieve self-sufficiency. HUD invested $75 million in the program in 2017 to help people like Brianna become a homeowner.

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Taneshia
Newnan, GA

"After 10 years of being in an abusive marriage, I finally got up enough courage to take my two daughters and leave. I applied for an apartment at the Housing Authority of Newnan and was able to get a place for me and my children within a few weeks. I still felt so lost and afraid. How could I ever provide for my children? I didn't have an education, and I was living from paycheck to paycheck. I enrolled in the Family Self Sufficiency Program and set five goals: to earn my GED, get a better job, get off of welfare, earn a degree and buy a home. On March 28, 2018, I closed on our home. I am no longer on welfare, and I have a great job as a quality manager. My husband has started his own business that is doing amazing. This program and HUD have changed our lives in such an incredible way. I'm grateful to the staff at the Housing Authority of Newnan and HUD for helping me and my family."

The Housing Authority of NeKentucky Scholar Housewnan administers HUD's Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) Program which connects HUD-assisted families with the resources, skills and opportunities needed to achieve self-sufficiency. HUD invested $75 million in the program in 2017 to help people like Taneshia make their dreams come true.

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Araceli
Fort Collins, CO

"I've always wanted to own my own home. As a mother, it's important to me to be able to provide safety and stability for my children and invest in their future. Homeownership is the best option. I'm extremely grateful for the incredible support that I have received from so many caring and talented professionals. The support that I have received has been instrumental to the success that I now enjoy. Thank you to HUD and Housing Catalyst for their programs that changed my life. To others out there seeking a better life, work with your housing coordinators and take advantage of the great programs that are available. Do the work and pursue educational and employment opportunities to build a better life. Say 'yes' when the world offers opportunities!"

Araceli found herself in a very difficult situation with nowhere to live but luckily, she was able to connect with a local safe house and spoke with a case manager about resources. Through her local housing authority, Housing Catalyst, Araceli was granted a project-based voucher and enrolled into their Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program. She began to explore the possibility of homeownership and worked on improving her credit and budgeting skills. After a year, she was finally able to make her dream of homeownership a reality. Housing Catalyst's Family Self-Sufficiency Program, better known as the JumpStart program to its residents, helps families gain education and career skills to move toward self-sufficiency. HUD invested $75 million in FSS in 2017 to help people like Araceli climb the ladder of economic opportunity.

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Oneika
Norfolk, VA

"Imagine if you woke up and someone sent you a text message that said your house is gone. The gas that's in your car, that's all you have. The money that's in your wallet, that's all you have. The clothes on your back, that's all you have. I'm very grateful and thankful for the Hampton Veterans Affairs Medical Center and the HUD-VASH program. It saved my life and my children's lives."

Oneika proudly served our country in the military for 11 years. After returning stateside and leaving the U.S. Army, she initially settled in Columbia, South Carolina. She moved to Virginia a few years later to support a family member through some challenges. Struggling to find employment that paid a livable wage, Oneika was unable to pay rent and was evicted. The two families began a nomadic existence, staying at Motel 6 when they could afford to, and with family and friends when they could not. They would spend much of their time at the local library where they could find heat or air conditioning. Oneika researched resources that are available for female veterans, which led her to the Hampton Veterans Affairs Medical Center and to HUD-Veteran Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH). She soon received a housing voucher and job training through the Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority's Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program. Today, Oneika serves as a recruiter for L3 Technologies, and is helping other veterans find post-service employment. Her ultimate career goal? To help others find a home through HUD-Veteran Affairs Supportive Housing. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Veterans Affairs recently announced a 5.4 percent decline in Veteran homelessness from 2017. In October 2017, the agencies also announced a $35 million grant to support veterans like Oneika with housing assistance.

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Antonio
East Point, GA

"When I came back from Iraq, I felt disconnected from society. I was depressed so I turned to drugs, but I didn't let those challenges stop me. HUD-VASH was a game changer for me. Sure, I received housing assistance, but it was much more than that. I set goals for myself-- to obtain my Ph.D. and become a homeowner in five years. I'm grateful that I didn't let one flat tire stop me. The battle isn't over, but it gets easier when you have the right support, resources, and programs like this one."

The East Point Housing Authority participates in the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program to provide wraparound services to homeless veterans. HUD recently awarded $35 million to help veterans like Antonio get the help they need.

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Burney
Miami, FL

"I came back from Germany after serving in the Army and got into drinking and smoking. I was a cabinet maker, but I couldn't hold a job for too long. Even my mom didn't want me sleeping in her house. I was known to the local correctional officers and even landed in prison for a few months. I also lost friends, got divorced, and slept in abandoned cars. I did this on and off for more than 10 years. One day, I heard about a place where I could sleep and asked a friend for a ride, but he took me to a detox place instead. Once I finally got to the point where I could look for a job and hold on to it, I started to feel better about myself. I went to college, got an Associates in Social Work and started working for Camillus House. Then I joined Chapman Partnership. I've been sober and employed for 26 years. I am a housing specialist and I find homes for people who are where I once was. I share my story and I tell them if I could do it, you can do it. You have to be honest with yourself because change is hard. You can talk all you want, but if you have reservations inside, most likely you won't change. So, it must come from within and you have to go at it every day. Even today, I am 62. I talk to myself when I feel I could revert to other behaviors and say, 'Hey Burney, what are you doing? You know you can't do that!' I look at my family photos, my degree, and remember that I like being honest with myself."

The Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust, serves persons in need, like Burney. First, he was a client then a faithful employee at Chapman Partnership, a homeless service provider within the Homeless Trust. In 2017, HUD awarded more than $30 million in funding to Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust as part of the annual Continuum of Care (COC) Program competition. This year the Trust, in partnership with the Miami Veteran Affairs and a network of dedicated partners and providers, led an unprecedented effort to house homeless veterans and has effectively ended veteran homelessness in their community.

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Mark
Federal Way, WA

"Alcohol or drugs didn't put me on the streets. My gambling problem and high child support did. It left me homeless off and on for five years. There are people who've been homeless for 15, 20 years and they seem to like it. For me, it was just my life, my routine - something I had to get through. I lived in my broken 1990 Ford F-10 for about three years until I met with my VA Case Manager. They told me I qualified for a HUD-VASH voucher and offered me a spot at the Wood Veterans House. I'm grateful to have had a chance to live there. It took time to get used to living with so many other people, but it's given me a chance to get back on my financial feet. I'm headed back to Bellingham - it's where I grew up and after all these years, it will be a nice place to call home."

The William J. Wood Veteran's House provides housing for homeless veterans and their families. The Woods Veterans House opened in December 2016 and is home to 44 fully furnished units that are eligible for rental subsides through the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program and King County Housing Authority. HUD and the VA recently announced a $35 million grant to help veterans like Mark find a place to call home.

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Muhammad
Atlanta, GA

"When I went in to the Army, I had never drunk before. But when you got off work, that was the big thing. It was just something we did. I thought I had the drinking under control, but when I left the Army three years later, I didn't quit drinking. I had worked at MCI in various positions and couldn't find one I really enjoyed. Plus, my drinking was in the way. I lost my job, my roommate moved out, and then I became homeless. I knew that I was worthy and capable of doing better. I just could not see that my drinking was a major reason things were so bad. I blamed racism, sexism, the economy, islamophobia. Choice, change, change. For me, the choice was to ask for help to have a chance at changing my life. I didn't want to just change my life, I wanted to change the lives of others. I continued my education and recently became a certified peer specialist and therapist. I'm looking forward to helping others overcome alcoholism. I'm a veteran who had some issues in my life, but I overcame them with a change of heart, attitude and outlook on life. No one owes any of us anything. The things we are given in life to help us to move forward, we should be grateful for them - and pay it forward."

Atlanta Housing (AH) is the largest housing authority in Georgia and one of the largest in the nation. AH provides and facilitates affordable housing resources for low-income households. Muhammad Khateeb receives housing assistance through HUD's Housing Choice Voucher program. HUD invested over $20 billion in the Housing Choice Voucher program in 2017 to help people like Muhammad find an affordable place to call home.

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Luis
San Diego, CA

"I never used the 'H-word.' I always called myself an urban camper. Today, I'm happy that I'm here because I have a roof over my head, my own kitchen, and a place of my own."

For 18 years, Luis called the U.S. Navy his home. After leaving military service, he struggled to maintain employment and ultimately found himself without a home and living on the streets of San Diego. In 2016, Luis connected with the Department of Veterans Affairs and the San Diego Housing Commission to become one of the first residents of the newly rehabilitated Hotel Churchill. Today, this historic building, a fixture in San Diego since 1914, is home to 72 persons who previously experienced homelessness, including 56 veterans like Luis. HUD invested more than $12 million to help the San Diego Housing rehabilitate the structure and bring it back to its original glory. As a result, the award-winning Hotel Churchill continues to stand at the corner of Ninth Avenue and C Street as a testament to what federal, state and local entities can achieve when they work together to end homelessness.

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Traci
Long Beach, CA

"I was a drug addict for many, many years. In and out of bad relationships. In and out of jail and prison and since I've been here [CVC], I'm no longer on parole or probation. I have a little dog now who is a service animal. I was able to get a car. It was little steps at a time."

Century Villages at Cabrillo (CVC) provides 662 units of permanent supportive housing in Long Beach, CA. Every year, CVC provides housing for 2,199 people including 1,042 Veterans and 600 families with children. The 27-acre campus has benefited from $66 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and nearly $18 million in HUD Capital Investment.

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Angel
Chicago, IL

"I decided to try A Safe Haven Foundation. It's the best thing that happened in my life. I knew that if I didn't give this institution a shot, I would be back on the streets, on drugs and in trouble with the law. If my mind says no to drugs, my heart will follow. The support, hope and refuge that ASH has given me has turned my life around and presented me with an opportunity to have a future completely different than the one I anticipated as a kid."

Introduced to drugs and crime as a young teen, Angel's issues with addiction and the criminal justice system were inevitable. A Safe Haven (ASH) was presented to him by the court system as an option. He has participated in Job Readiness and the Housing Keeping and Recovery Education programs. Angel now works part-time with ASH and aspires to continue working with the foundation that gave him his life back. A Safe Haven in Chicago serves as a shelter and support center for people struggling with drug abuse. The Chicago branch was recently named a HUD EnVision Center. Individuals are coached through recovery and supported on their journey to self-sufficiency. Over the last ten years, ASH has received over $10.3 million in funding through HUD's Continuum of Care program and $2 million through the Community Development Block Grant program. To learn more about ASH, please visit: www.ASafeHaven.org

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Brandis
Columbia, SC

"Once I had children of my own, I found that I no longer had a place to live. It turned out that getting my own place was a good stepping stone. I was connected with my case manager Ms. Boykin through the Columbia Housing Authority who helped me find a job. Ms. Boykin has impacted my life in positive ways. She goes above and beyond to help me out and keep me informed on different trainings and programs offered through the housing authority that will help me better myself. I hope to be self-sufficient in five years. My dream is to be a homeowner and to have a car."

The Columbia Housing Authority's Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program connects participants with case managers who help them develop goals that are achievable within five years. The goals are outlined in a contract, which is signed by the HUD-assisted individual and a representative of the housing authority. When Brandis achieves her goals in five years, she will become eligible to receive funds from an escrow account. HUD invested $75 million in FSS in 2017 to help people like Brandis to realize their potential.

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Jaydee
Louisville, KY

"If anyone knows anything about domestic violence, they know that there is a cycle of abuse -- and part of that cycle is taking away your support system. I knew I needed to reconnect and bring back the people who were going to support me and love me through this time in my life. After I gave birth to my beautiful little boy, I realized the abuse wasn't just impacting me but my baby too. So, one day I left and my family took us in. I started to look for programs, other ways for me to become successful because it was extremely hard for me to pay for daycare, go to work, make ends meet without stretching myself so thin that I wouldn't be able to give my son the best care. We finally found our 'yes' with a program in Louisville called the Family Scholar House. The day I walked into those doors, it was an automatic yes. I got on the waiting list and we had the honor of experiencing so many firsts in this apartment. Because of this program, I was able to go back to school full-time, graduate magna cum laude from the Kent School of Social Work, and then earn my Master of Science in Social Work at the University of Louisville. The assistance from HUD allowed us to thrive. We are a success story. I'm now fully employed and searching to buy my first home! In five years, I'm going to have my first home and my son will be in a great school while I'm doing what I love - showing women they are worthy and empowering them to leave abusive relationships. I'm giving back to the community that's helped me. Most importantly, I'm advocating for those who can't do so for themselves."

The Family Scholar House in Louisville works to end the cycle of poverty and transform their community by empowering families and youth to succeed in education and achieve life-long self-sufficiency. Nearly 80 percent of the participants exit the program with stable employment. HUD funding helps support 279 residents across five campuses. Learn more about Family Scholar House and how to apply. See all Kentucky Scholar House locations.

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Mercedes
Santa Ana, CA

"I was born and raised in Santa Ana. Both of my parents emigrated from Mexico to the United States in the 70's. I have two siblings one older and one younger. I loved school but was involved in an abusive relationship at a very young age. I dropped out of school and left home at the age of 15. I had my first child at 16 and lived in a domestic violence shelter for two and a half years. My domestic violence social worker was the one that helped me get into Section 8 housing and the Family Unification Program with the Orange County Housing Authority (OCHA). She will forever be my angel and I will forever be grateful to HUD. I received a Section 8 voucher in 2011. In 2013, I signed up for OCHA's Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program. The FSS program has been a true blessing for me and my children. It motivated me to set an example for my kids and go back to school. I got my GED and completed a vocational medical billing and coding program. I now have a good job that I love at UCI Medical where I found my passion helping others and, most importantly, I'm setting a positive, healthy example for my kiddos. I am working hard and hoping to purchase a home. For those who have been in similar situations, I would say stay positive and be patient because hard work always pays off."

The Orange County Housing Authority's Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program connects participants with case managers who help them develop goals. Enrollees have access to an escrow account, which helps them move toward financial independence. In 2017, HUD invested $75 million in FSS Programs at housing authorities across the country to help people like Mercedes achieve self-sufficiency.

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Alison
Billings, MT

"My mom and my dad physically abused me and my two sisters. I spent most of my childhood scared and trying to protect myself as it was apparent that no one was going to do it for me. When I was 14, I started drinking. I spent the next 23 years of my life addicted to anything that would enable me to not have to be myself. There were many hospital stays, many jail stays, and one involuntary commitment to a treatment center. It was there that I received treatment, gained self-esteem and self-respect, and got a year of sobriety under my belt. In 2011, I was released and able to return to college full-time while working at Denny's. I became eligible for Section 8 housing and eventually enrolled in the Family Self-Sufficiency Program. With HUD assistance, I was able to reach my goal of a college degree. HUD helped me make my dreams come true."

The Housing Authority of Billings' Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program connects participants with case managers who help them develop goals. Enrollees have access to an escrow account, which helps them move toward financial independence. Alison's goals are to get her Master's degree and to buy a house. In 2017, HUD allocated $75 million to the FSS Program at public housing authorities across the country to support people like Alison.

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Dianne
Long Beach, CA

"When I got here, I was recovering from an abusive relationship I had been in. I thought I would have to live with this man for the rest of my life because I couldn't take care of myself. Today, I work and have full custody of my kids. At one time, I thought I wouldn't have anybody on my side after and, now I have so many people on my side to help me out."

Century Villages at Cabrillo (CVC) provides 662 units of permanent supportive housing in Long Beach, CA. CVC provides housing for 2,199 people including 1,042 veterans and 600 families with children. The 27-acre campus has received $66 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and nearly $18 million in HUD Capital Investment.

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James
San Diego, CA

"When I was on the streets, I was using drugs and alcohol, it was bad. But I'm a survivor. Living here is like living in heaven. My first day here, I cried all night long. Now I have my own TV, my own bathroom -- it's changed my whole life."

The historic Hotel Churchill has been a fixture in downtown San Diego since 1914 but has fallen into disrepair over the decades. HUD invested more than $12 million in Moving to Work and HOME program funding to help the San Diego Housing Commission pay to rehabilitate and renovate the structure and turn it into 72 rental units for the homeless, including 56 veterans like James, as well as at-risk youth and ex-convicts. Today, the Hotel Churchill stands as a gleaming monument to what can be accomplished when HUD works with state and local leaders to address affordable housing challenges and end homelessness.

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Kourtney
Louisville, KY

"My apartment at Family Scholar House provided me with stability and a sense of community. We're all doing the same thing. We're all struggling with the same thing, so to have the kind of support and encouragement from your neighbors, friends and staff was really empowering and life changing. Having stable housing, allowed me to focus on school and raising my children - it was a safe space to come home to and it was affordable. No better combination. This program allowed me to not worry so much about housing or working to pay for rent. It allowed me to focus solely on school and my kids so that, in the future, I could provide for them the best way possible. It's crazy to think about how far we've come, but I can't help but smile when I think about our future. I'm now a homeowner and I really think the affordable housing made it possible - in combination with the support of the Family Scholar House. Homeownership was my dream after my divorce. It took me 10 years, but I made it. Keep pushing on. You have everything it takes to be successful. Use the tools that you have in front of you and never give up."

The Family Scholar House in Louisville aims to end the cycle of poverty and transform their community by empowering families and youth to succeed in education and achieve life-long self-sufficiency. Nearly 80 percent of the participants exit the program with stable employment. The Family Scholar House received $6.3 million in HUD funding as well as Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV) through the Louisville Metro Housing Authority for the current 279 residents on their five campuses. The HCV program partners with local public housing authorities to help low-income individuals and families find affordable housing in the private market. HUD invested over $20 billion in the HCV program in 2017 to help people like Kourtney find an affordable place to live.

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Mark
Louisville, KY

"I've been struggling with chronic homelessness my whole life. I started off living at the Louisville Center for Women and Families due to certain situations from my early childhood. I found myself living in my van - parked in front of our local Salvation Army. Then I became homeless until I received HUD assistance and moved into Section 8 housing. All I ask for is a roof over my head - something I have not been able to provide for myself. While I hope to expand my barbershop clientele, my main goal is to devote my time to help end youth homelessness. I'm a board member of the Youth Homeless Coalition but I hope to do much more than that. If you are a young person struggling with homelessness, never give up. Never be afraid to ask for help. It could be what you need to change your life."

Working with The Louisville Metro Housing Authority (LMHA), HUD provides rental assistance to more than 4,500 families in Jefferson County, Kentucky. LMHA is recognized as an exemplary housing authority who most recently received Choice Neighborhood planning, action and implementation grants in the effort to revitalize the Russell Neighborhood. Over the last fiscal year, LMHA has received almost $30 million in funding for their rental assistance program from HUD. The Department awarded over $2 billion to its Continuum of Care programs across the country in 2017 to give people like Mark a fresh start.

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Shernita
Washington, DC

"When I created the vision board my subject was to walk into my vision. I didn't even know what a vision was. I had to think beyond what I see--to create these things that I all accomplished. I'm a homeowner now. I was a single parent, now I'm a wife. And, that was on my vision board to become a wife. Also, for me to purchase a home, I had to save money. So here [referring to her vision board], I had to do everything that I needed to do to save money. Although it wasn't a lot of money to save. But, a little dollar here, and a little fifty cent here. It works because I learned how to make a dollar out of fifteen cents."

Living in public housing for most of her life, Shernita understands the impact the HUD EnVision Center will have in her community. EnVision Centers are centralized hubs where HUD-assisted individuals can receive economic, educational, leadership, and health services. She shared her path to self-sufficiency with those attending the launch of the District's EnVision Center in June. After living in a car, Shernita found housing through HUD's Housing Choice Voucher program and the District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA). She is a graduate of DCHA's Family Self Sufficiency program and became a homeowner through the agency's Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program. Today, Shernita works for the DCHA assisting other families who face similar adversities. In 2017, HUD awarded the DC Housing Authority $268 million to support housing assistance programs and other supportive services.

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Tiffany
Chicago, IL

"I started using drugs after a car accident 10 years ago. I got addicted to pain pills and then it moved to heroin. Even though I have two amazing sisters and parents, I have been in and out of treatment and jail ever since and spent a few months living in alleys and abandoned buildings. I've been to other places, but it was never enough. Here at A Safe Haven they work with you to get you everything you need. I've come a long way; I'm 100% better now. I know I can make it if I stay here. I don't ever want to go back. My parole is over, but I will stay to work on recovery and treatment. My goal is to open a kennel. I love dogs and think that is what God wants me to do."

Tiffany struggled with drug abuse and homelessness for a decade before receiving a court recommendation to seek help from A Safe Haven (ASH). Despite her strong relationship with her family, Tiffany lived on the streets and in jail for a number of years as a direct result of her battle with addiction. ASH in Chicago serves as a shelter and support center for people struggling with drug abuse. The Chicago branch was recently named a HUD EnVision Center. Individuals are coached through recovery and supported on their journey to self-sufficiency. HUD awarded over $2 billion to Continuum of Care programs across the country in 2017 to give people like Tiffany a second chance. To learn more about ASH, please visit ASafeHaven.org.

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Chevelle
Cincinnati, OH

"The public housing program has affected my life tremendously - in a good way, of course. I enrolled in their Family Self-Sufficiency program and it's given me the push to get up and try again. I got my high school diploma and am on my way to becoming a dental assistant. I'm excited about working towards my next goal - homeownership! If you never try, you will never know. All things are possible and dreams really do come true."

Cincinnati Metropolitan Housing Authority's (CMHA) Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program works with residents to set goals that help lead them to self-sufficiency. They also receive community resources and supportive services to meet these goals. HUD invested $75 million in the FSS program in 2017 to help people like Chevelle become self-sufficient.

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Kevin
Columbia, MO

"While I was getting my Master's in Business, I wasn't working and did not know how I was going to pay my rent. I had three young children and was a single parent. My cousin told me that the Columbia Housing Authority had opened for Section 8 housing. I waited in line for several hours and while waiting my head was telling me, 'I am not going to get this.' Boy, was I wrong. I qualified to receive a Housing Choice Voucher and was able to enroll in the Family Self-Sufficiency program. I am so happy that I stayed in line."

The Columbia Housing Authority's (CHA) Family Self-Sufficiency program connects participants with case managers who help them develop goals. Enrollees have access to an escrow account which helps them move toward financial independence. Kevin's goals are to become an established therapist and a homeowner. HUD invested $75 million in FSS in 2017 to help people like Kevin make their dreams come true.

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Rosanna
Midwest City, OK

"I moved to Muskogee, Oklahoma in 2012 with my three kids and was able to get my very first apartment as a single parent at Port City Acres. Moving from California was the biggest decision of my life at that time because I was leaving an unsafe situation. When I got here, all I had was two boxes of clothes and my children. I had no high school diploma, no job, minimal skills and let's not forget bad credit. All the odds seemed stacked against me at the time. When I met Shirlene, she introduced me to HUD's Family Self-Sufficiency [FSS] program and all it offers. With this program I was able to tell Shirlene my goals and dreams. We sat down and put together a 5-year plan. First, I got my GED and employment - with these two accomplishments, doors to other opportunities opened. I began college courses at Connors State College in Muskogee. Shirlene was able to share workshops such as "Bridges Out of Poverty." After I completed this workshop the next step was a Homebuyer Education class. The amount of opportunity never stopped and with each accomplishment I was searching for the next step. I am a firm believer that my current life for my family would have not been possible without the help of the Muskogee Housing Authority. I graduated my 5-year FSS plan in 3 years and had earned almost S13,000 for our first home. I am now a home owner in Midwest City, Oklahoma. I am married with four children and continue my education at Rose State College. I've studied Business with a focus in Marketing and I'm on track to graduate in Summer 2019. I hope to one day help others as Shirlene, the Muskogee Housing Authority, and the FSS program have helped me."

The Muskogee Housing Authority administers HUD's FSS program, connects HUD-assisted families with the resources, skills and opportunities needed to achieve self-sufficiency. HUD invested $75 million in FSS in 2017 to help people like Rosanna become financially independent.

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David
Charleston, SC

"I enrolled into the substance abuse training program in July of 2000. After four attempts, God still did not give up on me. I successfully completed the program and was hired at Goodwill. I worked there for a year before entering the HUD-VASH program. Eventually, I came on part-time at the veterans hospital. I excelled at my job and was hired full-time. The housing program helped me to establish myself back into society and, today, I am independent and eight years sober. I have to thank the staff of the housing program for making me a productive member of society -- clean, sober and independent. Praise Jesus!"

The Housing Authority of the City of Charleston participates in the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program which supports homeless veterans. HUD-VASH is a partnership between HUD's Housing Choice Voucher program and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide rental assistance, case management, and clinical services to those who have served our country. HUD and the VA recently announced a $35 million grant to help veterans like David find a home.

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Kelly and Souny
Long Beach, CA

"We got the apartment! We just stood there in the aisle at Walmart crying together. It was the most touching time in my life, except for my daughter's birth."

Kelly and Souny recount the day they found out they were selected for an apartment at Century Villages at Cabrillo (CVC). Their limited income and student loans had made it impossible for them to get approved for an apartment. CVC provides 662 units of permanent supportive housing across the community. Every year, CVC provides housing for 2,199 people including 1,042 Veterans and 600 families with children. The 27-acre campus has benefited from $66 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and nearly $18 million in HUD Capital Investment.

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Tanya
Anne Arundel, MD

"After the loss of my son to gun violence, I went through a very dark period. I needed to feel complete and decided to go back to college. I enrolled in the Family Self-Sufficiency program. The program helped me turn my dreams into goals. I have the ability to earn and build savings through the escrow account -- it gives me incentive to work harder. Thirty-four years after dropping out of college, I'm proud to say I earned my Bachelor's degree and graduated Magna Cum Laude. Currently, I'm pursuing a double Master's in Christian Care and Divinity. It's never too late to beat the odds and accomplish your dreams!"

The Housing Commission of Anne Arundel County's Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program provides job training, educational programs, and money management services to enrollees. HUD-assisted individuals enrolled in the program outline goals they will accomplish through the program. Tanya's goals are to become a licensed chaplain, to own a home, and to open an assisted living facility for vulnerable adults. HUD invested $75 million in FSS in 2017 to help people like Tanya climb the ladder of economic opportunity.

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Eric
Long Beach, CA

"Before I came here [Century Villages at Cabrillo], I lived in transitional housing and I had to share everything. There was always too much noise or somebody in your room slamming dominos. Here, I was the first person to use my bathroom. You don't know what a feeling that is! I love being here, and I think for some people this is a stepping stone to other things or other programs. For a lot of us, this is the end of the line. For me, this is my home. There is no other place I would rather be right now."

Century Villages at Cabrillo (CVC) provides 662 units of permanent supportive housing in Long Beach, CA. Every year, CVC provides housing for 2,199 people including 1,042 Veterans and 600 families with children. The 27-acre campus has benefited from $66 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credits and nearly $18 million in HUD Capital Investment.