DEPARTMENT: Human Services
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Melody Woosley
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: City-Wide
SUBJECT:
Briefing and Discussion on the Department of Human Services Fair Housing/Housing Counseling Program
SUMMARY:
This item provides a briefing on the Department of Human Services (DHS) Fair Housing/Housing Counseling Program. This item also provides an update on progress made in addressing Fair Housing/Housing Counseling items outlined in the Mayor's Task Force on Preserving Dynamic and Diverse Neighborhoods.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
The Department of Human Services (DHS), Fair Housing/Housing Counseling Program (FHHC) has provided housing counseling services to homeowners as a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Certified Housing Counseling agency since 1979. FHHC supports the delivery of a wide variety of housing counseling services to homebuyers, homeowners, low to moderate income renters, and those in danger of or experiencing homelessness. Services are provided regardless of income.
On April 22, 2015, the Mayor's Task Force on Preserving Dynamic and Diverse Neighborhoods issued a report designating the DHS Fair Housing/Housing Counseling Program and the Fair Housing Council of Greater Bexar County as primary resources for vulnerable residents to minimize displacement due to redevelopment and mitigate the effects of neighborhood change.
The primary goal of the Fair Housing/Housing Counseling Program is to improve housing stability by:
* Providing public education to reduce discrimination in housing
* Educating landlords and tenants regarding their legal rights and responsibilities
* Expanding homeownership opportunities and improve access to affordable housing
* Helping homeowners prevent or resolve mortgage delinquency, default and foreclosure and maintain homeownership
* Providing relocation assistance in the event of displacement
* Connecting residents to emergency assistance, financial empow...
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