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Frequently asked questions

SHA will temporarily stop accepting applications for voucher program

Please note that this is an active document. We will be adding questions and answers about this decision according to the public response.

• Why did SHA make this decision?

• Is this a permanent closure of the waiting list?

• What will happen to everyone who applies before July 1, 2003?

• Are any other waiting lists closing?

• Is anything else changing at PorchLight?

• How is SHA notifying the public and its partners about these changes?

• How do I apply for a voucher before the deadline?

SHA will temporarily stop taking applications for the Section 8 waiting list after June 30, 2003. This suspension will prevent the waiting list for vouchers, which currently includes more than 4,600 households, from getting excessively long and raising expectations which the housing authority cannot meet.

Why did SHA make this decision?

Federal budget cuts will reduce the number of vouchers available to SHA over the next year to about 350. Since there are about 4,600 people on the voucher waiting list now, SHA estimates that someone applying for a voucher today would wait almost three years before his or her application is considered. Halting new applications will allow SHA to focus its resources on serving those who have applied.

Is this a permanent closure of the waiting list?

No. SHA will begin accepting applications again as soon as it is possible for new applicants to receive housing assistance in a reasonable time period. SHA does not expect to begin taking applications for the voucher program again for at least one year.

What will happen to everyone who applies before July 1, 2003?

Those who have already applied for vouchers will remain on the waiting list, along with all new applicants who apply before June 30.

Are any other waiting lists closing?

Waiting lists for SHA’s public housing program and other programs remain open and new applications are encouraged at all times.

Is anything else changing at PorchLight?

Yes. PorchLight will change its business hours as well. Effective July 1, 2003, PorchLight will be open Tuesday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

How is SHA notifying the public and its partners about these changes?

In accordance with federal regulations and its own administrative plan, SHA began publicizing these changes in mid-May with announcements in local publications, a press release, and other correspondence.

How do I apply for a voucher before the deadline?

People interested in applying for a Section 8 voucher before the June 30 cut-off date can obtain an application in several ways. Application forms are available for pick-up at SHA’s PorchLight Housing Center, and can also be downloaded from SHA’s Web site on PorchLight's Publications and support page. To request an application by mail, call PorchLight at 206-239-1500.