In March 2023, the City’s HOME-ARP Allocation Plan was approved by City Council and accepted by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The City’s HOME-ARP Allocation Plan is oriented to the prevention of homelessness by municipal renters comprising eligible “Other Populations" earning less than 30% and 50% of AMI and experiencing varying forms of housing instability (cost-burden, over-crowding, unstable dwellings and conditions, etc.). These resources account for 65% of program funds. The remaining 35% of Independence HOME-ARP program funds will be committed to eligible “Supportive Services” and made available to all eligible qualifying populations, with a preference for those clients assisted with “Financial Services.”
The City issued a Request for Proposals from community development organizations to administer the City’s HOME-ARP Allocation Plan.
Community Services League is uniquely qualified for this project. CSL has provided Housing Case Management services for 15 years and is the lead agency in Independence providing homeless and homeless prevention services. Community Service League plans to assist eligible households earning 30% to 50% (AMI), in attaining stable housing, avoiding eviction, and homelessness with financial assistance, and other supportive services. Supportive and Financial Service assistance will be made available to all eligible qualifying populations.
CSL will provide: intake and assessment; direct financial assistance and support services assistance (as needed) as outlined in the RFP; assistance in accessing mainstream benefits; information and referral services (to both internal and external resources); assisting households in creating and developing housing plans (that lead to long-term stability); and coaching and counseling. CSL will provide these services in person and virtual/remote as desired by the household. All services will be individualized to meet the specific needs of each unique household. Our case managers are adept at rapidly identifying critical needs followed by longer-term planning that leads to housing stability.