News Summary
The city of Raleigh has announced a new department aimed at enhancing support for families living in public housing. The Resident Services department seeks to provide essential resources and assistance, helping families transition into affordable housing while addressing significant challenges such as access to healthcare and food assistance. With a focus on improving quality of life and achieving self-sufficiency, the initiative aims to address the ongoing housing crisis in North Carolina, where many families struggle with economic hardships and limited housing options.
Raleigh Launches New Department to Support Public Housing Families Amid Ongoing Challenges
The city of Raleigh, North Carolina, has announced the creation of a new department aimed at strengthening support for families living in public housing. The Resident Services department was introduced as part of a broader effort to help residents overcome housing burdens, access essential resources, and achieve greater stability.
Goals and Focus of Resident Services
The department’s primary mission is to assist families in transitioning into affordable and safe housing while connecting them with vital services such as healthcare, food assistance, and community programs. An emphasis is placed on helping residents improve their overall quality of life and achieve self-sufficiency. The department will also focus on developing programs that foster personal and career development, supporting residents in building sustainable futures.
Support from Residents and Housing Staff
Among those benefiting from the new initiative is Tequita Jarman, a Raleigh resident who experienced homelessness before finding stability through support from the housing authority. Her positive experience underscores the department’s purpose: to provide tangible assistance to families facing housing insecurity and other hardships. Similarly, Sharon Sneed, the relocation manager, explained that the team is dedicated to helping families find decent, safe housing and navigate the often complicated housing voucher system.
Housing Challenges in North Carolina
Despite efforts to improve, many families in North Carolina face significant obstacles. According to data from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, more than 46,000 residents live in public housing across the state. The average household income in these homes is just over $15,000 per year, highlighting the economic challenges faced by many families. Finding affordable, suitable housing remains a widespread struggle, compounded by limited access and shortages of available units.
Issues with Landlords and Voucher Acceptance
One hurdle frequently encountered is the reluctance of landlords to accept housing vouchers, making it even more difficult for larger families to find appropriate accommodations. This issue is compounded by a shortage of available housing units, which limits options for residents who need immediate assistance. The department is actively engaging with community partners, including landlords and property owners, to expand the pool of suitable housing options.
Community Engagement and Future Initiatives
Raleigh’s efforts to improve affordable housing are ongoing. The city’s leadership, including soon-to-be Mayor Janet Cowell, has expressed a strong commitment to addressing these issues. Plans are underway to utilize tax increment financing and other strategies to fund the development of new affordable housing units. These initiatives aim to meet the growing demand for more accessible, affordable housing options within the city.
Related Housing System Challenges
While Raleigh is expanding support through Resident Services, challenges persist in neighboring counties. An investigative report revealed issues with delayed and missed rental payments from the Wake County Housing Authority. Tenants like Nancy Powell reported that their landlords had not received rent payments totaling over three months due to administrative errors, causing financial difficulties. Landlords, such as Zack Hinton, expressed surprise at these widespread problems, which have affected multiple rental agreements.
Further complicating the landscape are delays in rent payments for tenants like Mariama Ali, who received notices indicating unpaid rent totaling $6,507. These issues are attributed to recent administrative turnover and oversight within the Wake County Housing Authority. The incoming leadership team is working to resolve these problems and streamline payment processes.
Developments in Nearby Housing Agencies
In Durham, the housing authority recently experienced significant leadership changes with the departure of Anthony Scott, who served as CEO for over eight years. During his tenure, the agency oversaw a $95 million affordable housing bond aimed at developing and modernizing public housing. The agency also faces legal challenges, including lawsuits alleging discrimination based on disability.
Conclusion
As the city of Raleigh advances its efforts to improve housing stability, officials emphasize collaboration with community partners, landlords, and residents themselves. The new Resident Services department represents a key step in addressing the complex challenges of affordable housing in North Carolina’s capital, with the goal of helping families overcome barriers and build stronger, more secure lives.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hudson School District Weighs Closure of Two Elementary Schools
Raleigh Launches Program to Boost Small Businesses Growth
Raleigh Breaks Ground on Cottages of Idlewild Affordable Housing
Durham City Council Approves Major Development at Brier Creek
Raleigh Urges Support for Infrastructure Amid Growth
Construction Industry Faces Challenges Amid Declining Private Activity
Owensboro Implements Stricter Property Maintenance Regulations
North Carolina Reveals Business Insights with BNC 125 List
Kyrene District Considers Closing Nine Schools Amid Budget Shortfall
Construction Worker Dies After Fall in Salem, Massachusetts
Additional Resources
- News Observer: Durham County Housing Authority Challenges
- WRAL: Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell’s Focus on Affordable Housing
- ABC11: Wake County Housing Authority Payment Issues
- Wikipedia: Public Housing in the United States
- Google News: Affordable Housing North Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
