DHA Unveils Innovative Mobility Program for Families

DHA Introduces Children First North Texas Mobility Program

DHA, Housing Solutions for North Texas, has taken a significant step forward by launching the Children First North Texas program. This initiative aims to expand housing options for families who utilize Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), enabling them to access high-opportunity neighborhoods that are crucial for their children’s growth and development.

Program Overview and Funding

The Children First North Texas program is funded through a grant awarded to DHA by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. This initiative is rooted in the belief that residing in neighborhoods with lower poverty rates has a profound effect on children’s educational outcomes and overall life chances. As one of only seven public housing agencies (PHAs) to receive this funding across the country, DHA is poised to make a meaningful impact.

Understanding the Importance of Neighborhoods

Research highlights the significant impact that the environment has on a child's future. According to studies conducted by Opportunity Insights, transitioning from underprivileged neighborhoods to those with above-average upward mobility can increase a child’s lifetime earnings by a staggering $200,000. This underscores why such programs are crucial for families seeking better opportunities.

Addressing Barriers for Families

The Housing Choice Voucher program is designed to empower families to choose where they want to live in the market. However, many encounter obstacles when trying to settle in more desirable communities. The Children First North Texas program aims to bridge this gap by providing essential support and strategies that encourage landlord participation in these neighborhoods.

Benefits for Eligible Families

Families that qualify for this innovative program can access several benefits designed to ease their transition:

• Financial assistance to cover security deposits and other moving expenses
• A dedicated housing navigator who will assist with searching for and applying to homes
• Post-move assistance to help families settle into their new environments

It’s important to note that resources for participation in this program are limited, and DHA will directly contact eligible Housing Choice Voucher families with detailed information.

Incentives for Participating Landlords

Landlords who opt to work with DHA to house families in these optimal neighborhoods can benefit from a variety of incentives:

• Signing bonuses for program participation
• Guaranteed rent for up to three months
• Payments to cover vacancy losses
• Access to risk mitigation funds

A high-opportunity area is characterized by a census tract with a poverty rate of 10% or lower. The coverage area for the DHA Children First North Texas program includes several counties in North Texas.

Collaborative Efforts for a Successful Program

DHA is committed to providing a transparent and effective process for administering the Children First program. To streamline operations, DHA has developed automated systems and custom applications, ensuring that both families and landlords receive comprehensive support throughout their experience. The program will be supported by partnerships with organizations like the Inclusive Communities Project and Housing Connector.

Insights from DHA Leadership

“We appreciate the opportunity from HUD to implement this Mobility Grant program, and we are thrilled to support our Housing Choice Voucher families as they transition into better neighborhoods,” said Troy Broussard, President and CEO of DHA. “With the support of our partners like Housing Connector and the Inclusive Communities Project, we aim to make this a successful initiative that offers lasting benefits to our families.”

About DHA, Housing Solutions for North Texas

DHA, Housing Solutions for North Texas, is dedicated to providing quality and affordable housing to low-income residents through the effective administration of housing assistance programs. The agency’s mission emphasizes creating self-sufficiency and economic independence for program participants. Currently, DHA serves approximately 55,000 people through various housing programs and is guided by its Board of Commissioners, adhering to the regulations set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Children First North Texas program?

The program aims to increase housing opportunities for families using Housing Choice Vouchers by facilitating their access to high-opportunity neighborhoods.

Who funds the Children First program?

The program is funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

What benefits do families receive?

Eligible families gain access to financial assistance, a dedicated housing navigator, and post-move support.

How can landlords participate?

Landlords can enroll in the program to receive various benefits, including financial incentives for accepting voucher-holding families.

What areas qualify as high-opportunity neighborhoods?

High-opportunity areas are defined as census tracts with a poverty rate of 10% or lower, focusing on enhancing life prospects for children and families.

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