After almost 15 years, NYCHA is finally reopening its waitlist for Section 8 housing applications.
NYCHA’s Housing Choice Voucher program is now accepting applications from June 3 at midnight until June 9, by the end of the day.
The federal program, established through the Housing and Community Development Act of 1978, assists low-income families by covering the majority of their rent expenses. Typically, these families contribute 30% of their income towards the overall cost.
The city closed its wait list back in 2009 due to the high demand for the limited number of housing vouchers.
Due to a severe shortage of affordable housing and the overcrowding of city shelters, the decision to reopen applications has been made.
“NYCHA’s doors are being reopened to hundreds of thousands of new Section 8 applicants, marking a significant milestone after 15 years,” stated NYC Mayor Eric Adams. He emphasized the importance of utilizing all available resources to address the housing crisis in the city. Mayor Adams highlighted the city’s efforts, including advancing 24 housing projects on public land through the ’24 in 24′ plan and advocating for the ‘City of Yes for Housing Opportunity’ proposal, which aims to increase housing options in every neighborhood. The ultimate goal is to ensure that all New Yorkers have access to suitable housing and can maintain a stable living situation.”
Currently, the program has over 85,000 housing vouchers and is assisting more than 25,000 households.
