The Long Beach Housing Authority is hoping to incentivize landlords and housing providers to accept Emergency Housing Vouchers and Housing Choice Voucher Programs, which would increase housing opportunities for those suffering from homelessness or in danger of becoming homeless.
Housing vouchers were granted to 582 individuals in Long Beach as part of the 2021 American Rescue Act. As of today, 401 of those people have been able to use their voucher for affordable housing.
“There are hundreds of people who have been issued vouchers but are still in search of housing,” said Health and Human Services Director Kelly Colopy in a statement from the City. “This focused outreach is part of the City’s effort to provide long-term solutions to housing insecurity and homelessness.”
The Housing Authority has launched a call center where City staff will contact property owners to inform them of the incentives available for those who accept housing vouchers.
These incentives include: $2,500 to landlords for each voucher accepted and leased to, $2,500 in funds for damages that exceed the security deposit and a security deposit up to two times the amount of rent.
The City is also launching a variety of virtual information series to teach landlords about subsidized housing (housing obtained with the help of a voucher) regulations, various Housing Authority processes as well as any updates to the program.
“The City is doing everything it can to ensure that those with Emergency Housing Vouchers are able to find homes,” said Mayor Rex Richardson in a statement from the City. “We are personally reaching out to property owners to ask them to do their part in solving the homelessness crisis. We hope they’ll answer the call.”
Information sessions will be held on the days listed below.
- Tuesday, March 14, noon to 1 p.m. – New owner info session
- Wednesday, April 19, 4 to 5 p.m. – Renewing for success
- Tuesday, May 16, noon to 1 p.m. – Partner portal
- Wednesday, June 21, 4 to 5 p.m. – Housing inspections
Housing providers interested in learning more or signing up for an information session may call 562.570.5372, e-mail HA-Owners@longbeach.gov or visit longbeach.gov/haclb. Those interested in learning more about accepting housing vouchers can sign up for the Partners in Housing newsletter.