Saturday, May 12, 2012
HUD-VASH Program
What is the HUD-VASH Program?
The HUD-VASH program is a partnership between the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)
and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide case management, supportive services, and
subsidized housing vouchers for eligible homeless Veterans.
In the area served by VA Gulf Coast HCS Medical Center, located on Highway 98 in Pensacola,
"Housing Choice” Vouchers are administered through the City of Pensacola Housing Department.
Ongoing case management is provided by social work staff from the VA.
The HUD-VASH program allows eligible veterans to obtain safe, affordable, accessible, permanent
housing in a location of their choice. The primary goal of the program is to help move Veterans and
their families out of homelessness.
A key component of the program is case management provided by VA social workers. Program
participants formulate treatment plans with their social workers and receive ongoing support to
attain their goals. Referrals are also made to additional community-based supports.
What does the Case Manager do?
Veteran participation in ongoing, long-term case management is a core program requirement.
- HUD-VASH case managers will: Work with Veterans to develop individualized treatment plans
- Assist with the voucher application process and housing search
- Coordinate access to needed services and support
- Provide limited counseling services, or referrals when more in-depth support
- is needed
- Complete program documentation with input from Veterans as needed
- Monitor progress and follow up as needed
After appropriate progress is demonstrated, the case manager may decide to discontinue case
management. Veterans may graduate from the program in this manner, but still continue to receive rental assistance as long as it is needed.
What Cost is Involved?
Veterans are responsible to pay approximately 30 percent of their gross monthly income directly to their landlords. The housing authority pays the remaining portion of the rent.
Security deposits and utility deposits, along with any other up-front fees, are the responsibility of the Veteran. Some community resources may be available to assist with these expenses.
Other incidental and monthly expenses will need to be considered, such as:
- Food & transportation
- Utilities
- Household supplies
- Basic home furnishings
- Phone, cable, internet, etc.
Where can Vouchers be Used?
HUD-VASH Vouchers can be used to subsidize rental units from any landlord willing to accept a VASH
housing voucher. Landlords enter into an agreement with the Pensacola Housing Department to obtain rental subsidies. Vouchers are also portable, within specific limitations.
What do Veterans Need to Get a Housing Voucher?
Some documents are required as part of the housing authority application process. Veterans can begin ahead of time to gather these items:
- Photo ID for all adults
- Social Security Cards for all household members
- Birth certificates for children ages 0-18
Other income/asset verifications are also required at time of application.
LANDLORDS Please call with questions or for more information.
Marsha Bazinet
Housing Choice Voucher Coordinator
(850) 858-0350
City of Pensacola
Housing Department
420 West Chase Street
Pensacola, Florida 32502
