At Portage Metropolitan Housing Authority (PMHA), we’re committed to providing affordable housing solutions for families and individuals in our community. A key initiative that allows us to do this effectively is the Moving to Work (MTW) program. This program enables housing authorities like ours to design and implement innovative strategies that use federal funds more efficiently, promote self-sufficiency among residents, and expand housing choices for low-income families.
Keep reading to learn more about what MTW agencies do and how Moving to Work initiatives can positively impact your housing situation.
What is the Moving to Work program?
The Moving to Work program is a federal demonstration program created by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). It was designed to allow Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) to test, develop, and implement new housing strategies. MTW agencies, such as PMHA, are granted exemptions from many existing Public Housing and voucher rules, along with increased flexibility in the use of federal funds.
This flexibility allows MTW agencies to better address the unique needs of their local communities and implement innovative solutions. The program is centered on three primary objectives:
- Reducing costs and achieving greater cost-effectiveness in federal expenditures
- Promoting self-sufficiency among assisted families
- Increasing housing choices for low-income families
PMHA has been a proud MTW agency since the program’s inception in 1999. We are one of only three Public Housing Authorities in Ohio participating in this demonstration. Our involvement has been extended through 2028, allowing us to continue developing and implementing innovative housing solutions that benefit our community.
What are the benefits of the Moving to Work program for housing authorities?
The Moving to Work program offers a wide range of benefits to both housing authorities and the families they serve. For MTW agencies like PMHA, the program delivers:
- Increased Flexibility – MTW agencies can allocate resources more effectively, which allows them to better address specific housing challenges within their communities.
- Streamlined Operations – The ability to waive certain HUD regulations allows for more efficient program administration.
- Expanded Reach – With the additional benefits provided by Moving to Work, PMHA is able to serve 5% more families than it would have otherwise.
What incentives are available for participants in the Move to Work Program?
For individuals and families who participate in PMHA’s housing programs, the Moving to Work program offers several advantages:
Rent Caps
Participants in PMHA’s Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) programs benefit from rent caps that improve affordability, thanks to the Moving to Work Program. For Public Housing participants, rent is capped at less than 30% of their adjusted income. For Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) participants, initial rent is limited to no more than 50% of their adjusted monthly income.
Homeownership Opportunities
The MTW Homeownership Voucher Program enables participants to transfer from Public Housing to homeownership. Additionally, this program offers assistance to homeowners facing foreclosure, helping them keep their homes during tough financial times.
Employment Income Flexibility
As part of the Moving to Work exemptions, Housing Choice Voucher program households at $0 HAP are permitted to self-certify income. For Public Housing participants who experience an increase in employment income, the MTW program delays the impact on rent until the next annual recertification. Also, if their income decreases by less than $1,000 or for a period shorter than 30 days, rent adjustments will not take effect until the next annual recertification.
Expanded Housing Choices
The Moving to Work program expands housing choices for low-income families by offering project-based vouchers. These vouchers help non-profits and developers increase the availability of housing for those in need, ensuring participants in PMHA housing programs have more options when it comes to finding a suitable home. The program also incentivizes new landlords with a $1000 bonus.
MTW Self-Sufficiency Program
As part of the Housing Choice Voucher Family Self-Sufficiency Program, Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) participants benefit from changes in how interest earned is allocated, helping them to build savings and work toward long-term self-sufficiency. The program also includes MTW employment initiatives, which focus on helping participants gain the skills and opportunities needed to secure stable employment.
Learn more about the features of PMHA’s Moving to Work program.
Who is eligible for PMHA housing programs?
PMHA connects low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities in the state of Ohio with housing and rental subsidies, including Public Housing and Section 8 Voucher properties. Eligibility for PMHA’s housing programs varies depending on income, family size, and other factors. We also work with special populations, such as veterans, foster care youth, the elderly, and the disabled, providing the resources and guidance they need to find safe, secure housing.
Housing Programs from PMHA
The Portage Metropolitan Housing Authority (PMHA) is proud to be among the MTW agencies helping to connect individuals and families to affordable housing programs. We help people throughout Portage County navigate Section 8, Public Housing, and homeownership programs, so they can understand their options.
If you are in need of guidance or support as you seek to secure affordable housing, talk to a member of our team. We’ll answer all your questions and get you the help you need to navigate the systems and find a place to call home.