SEATTLE—November 19, 2004—Navigating the guidelines and qualifications for Seattle Housing Authority’s programs can be complex and difficult, even for fellow housing providers and social workers. PorchLight Insider, a new e-newsletter, will shed light on the process. It will be available beginning in December, and will contain tips and suggestions for housing organizations and case managers who work directly with low-income residents in Seattle.

To receive PorchLight Insider, send an e-mail to PorchLightInsider@seattlehousing.org with “Subscribe” in the subject line.

The goal of PorchLight Insider is to help case managers and other service agency staff match families and individuals with the fastest, most appropriate housing option for their circumstances. "We hope that this will allow us to get the most current information out to our partners as quickly as possible," commented Dennis Hall, PorchLight's admissions manager. "If it works the way we are hoping, it will help them get their clients into housing more quickly."

Each issue will provide explanations of new policies or emerging issues affecting applicants and Housing Choice Voucher Program participants. Standard features in each issue will include information on the shortest waiting lists, who to contact, and other tips for navigating the housing process.

Last month, 15 social service providers, representing 12 local agencies, participated in a workshop at PorchLight to discuss format and content for the new electronic publication. The workshop gave providers the opportunity to contribute ideas for article topics and recurring features based on the most useful and needed information. The group generated a wish list of over 30 topics of interest for future issues.

PorchLight Housing Center, a division of the Seattle Housing Authority, accepts applications for Low Income Public Housing and offers free support and housing counseling for applicants. PorchLight is also the home of the Housing Choice Voucher Program, serving current program participants, landlords and other partners in affordable housing.