New Workforce Housing Rental Assistance Program to Support Low-Income Families Launches in Small City

• Author: Bernard Reynolds
• Posted: 2024-04-04

Milpitas has undertaken a new housing initiative to provide vital support to low-income workers and their families. The Workforce Housing Rental Assistance Program (WHRAP), a collaboration between the City of Milpitas and FORWARD, represents a bold step towards securing housing stability for the city's most vulnerable populations.

A Financial Lifeline Through Housing Funds

With funding amounting to $773,341 from the Permanent Local Housing Allocation (PLHA), the WHRAP aims to offer 24 months of rental assistance to as many as 50 qualifying households. To be eligible, households must fall at or below 30% of the Housing and Community Development (HCD) income levels and reside or be employed within Milpitas.

The program sets forth a comprehensive eligibility criterion to ensure assistance reaches those in dire need. Requirements include the applicant's current employment status, income not exceeding 30% of HCD's median income levels, and successful completion of city housing inspections, all in accordance with PLHA guidelines.

Key beneficiaries of the program include adults living and working in Milpitas, those living in Milpitas but employed elsewhere, and employees in Milpitas residing in different municipalities.

Navigating the Path to Assistance

FORWARD has been selected by the Milpitas City Council to administer this program, tasked with executing community outreach, managing applications, and verifying applicant eligibility. FORWARD features an advanced online application portal, available in 68 languages, and offers application assistance through various communication methods, including phone, text, and email, to accommodate non-English speakers.

Applicants must provide valid identification, recent income verification, and a current lease agreement or similar documentation confirming a history of rental payments.

Cultivating Community Through Supportive Foundations

By introducing the WHRAP, Milpitas and FORWARD are committed to not just policy success but ensuring tangible, positive outcomes for the residents of Milpitas. This program is a testament to the city's commitment to creating a supportive community infrastructure that values and upholds the welfare of all its members.

For detailed information on the program or to apply, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the official program website: www.forwardplatform.com/city-of-milpitas-workforce-housing-rental-assistance-program. This initiative marks a significant milestone in advancing financial relief and housing stability within the Milpitas community.