What is the difference between the Section 8 Voucher Rental Assistance Program and Public Housing?
The Section 8 Voucher Program provides rental assistance to eligible individuals and families who find their own unit in the private rental housing market. The rented units are owned by a private landlord. Participants generally pay 30% of income as rent and may be allowed to pay up to 40%. The difference between the tenant's portion and the contract rent is paid directly to the landlord. Eligible participants may transfer their voucher to other parts of the country including Puerto Rico.
Public Housing consists of properties that RHA owns and manages. RHA is the landlord. The rental assistance is tied to the unit. The rental assistance ends once you move out of Public Housing. Tenants pay 30% of income as rent. Some properties are designated for senior and or disabled populations. Some sites offer resident councils, social services and community activities. Public housing also has programs such as employment and job training, child-care, after school programs, elderly assistance and case management.
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