Houston Housing Authority and HUD Launch Programs to Improve Housing Mobility and Support Aging in Place | City Government

New initiatives expand services to reach more families and seniors, meeting needs with additional resources

For an 83-year-old grandmother, a simple bathroom renovation now allows her to safely shower without fear of falling. Across town, a young family is preparing to move to a neighborhood with better schools, a dream they never thought possible. These life-changing moments are becoming a reality for many Houstonians, thanks to two new programs launched by the Houston Housing Authority (HHA), in partnership with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). With $6.25 million in funding, these initiatives are redefining what affordable housing means for vulnerable residents.

The Housing Choice Voucher Mobility Services Program provides comprehensive support to families with Housing Choice Vouchers to expand their housing and neighborhood options, while the Senior Home Modification Program provides critical safety and accessibility modifications, enabling low-income seniors to age in place safely.

“These programs will significantly expand our ability to help those in need,” said David A. Northern Sr., HHA president and CEO. “One program provides mobility-related services to enrolled families, improving their housing choices and access to high-opportunity areas. The other helps low-income seniors by making essential home modifications, facilitating safer and more accessible living environments.”

The Housing Choice Voucher Mobility Services Program addresses barriers such as security deposits, housing search time and landlord acceptance to increase access to desirable areas for voucher holders, helping families move to neighborhoods with better schools, lower crime rates and more opportunity.

The Senior Home Modification Program is designed to help seniors remain in their homes instead of moving to nursing homes or other assisted care facilities. By making modifications that improve safety, accessibility, and functional abilities, the program reduces the risk of falls and helps seniors live independently.

“With these groundbreaking programs, we are tackling the affordable housing crisis head on,” said HUD Regional Administrator Candace Valenzuela. “Here, HUD is supporting Houston’s efforts with more than $6 million in grants. Houston’s leadership in adopting these initiatives underscores a dedicated effort to reduce housing disparities and provide critical support to families and seniors in need.”

“The launch of the Senior Housing Modification Program and the Housing Choice Voucher Mobility Services Program in Houston allows HHA to make more critical investments in our city’s future,” said Jody Proler, Chair of the HHA Board of Commissioners. “These programs not only allow HHA to expand its services and resources to more Houstonians, but they also align with our mission to provide more equitable and accessible affordable housing options for a brighter future.”

For more information about the Housing Choice Voucher Mobility Services Program and the Senior Home Modification Program, please visit housingforhouston.com.