July 2006

Welcome to HACA Highlights

This is the first issue of “HACA Highlights”. We’re launching it to help you stay up to date on important information about your housing assistance and other services in the community. We’ll publish “HACA Highlights” every few months as we have new information that we think you need to know.

We’ll also use it to answer frequently asked questions. If you have a hot question that you think others would be interested in, email us at highlights@haca.net.

The Whole Truth

The Housing Authority has a new way to verify family income. Before you even submit your Personal Declaration form, our computers can now give us a report of the wages and benefits that you and the other members of your family receive—your Social Security, SSI and unemployment benefits….and all wages (even if you only worked 1 or 2 days). This information comes to us from the federal government.

So don't risk losing your Section 8 Voucher. When we ask you to report your income, report ALL of it for every person in the household. Don't be like one family that told us only 1/2 the truth … and ended up having to repay $50,000 to avoid going to jail.

Free Summer Lunch Programs for Kids and Teens

The Hayward Unified School District and the Alameda County Community Food Bank have announced free summer lunch programs for anyone 18 or younger, regardless of income. No registration is required.

Hayward Unified School District (HUSD)

Program start dates vary by site and begin as early as June 26. Call HUSD at (510) 784-2677 for details.

Sites:

Ashland Community Ctr

Bret Harte Middle School

César Chávez Middle School

Darwin Center

Glassbrook School*

Harder School*

Hayward High

Matt Jimenez Center

Longwood School*

Mt. Eden High

Muir School*

Park School*

Ruus School

Salvation Army

Southgate School

Tennyson High School

Tyrrell School*

More Month, More Money

Tired of having more month than money?

Try buying the Sunday paper; you'll get the latest news, plus a lot of great money saving coupons.
Sign up for CARE…and realize savings on your PG&E bill. The form comes in your PG&E bill.
Don't pay the higher price for single servings. Buy the family pack and some zip-lock bags. Make your own single serving packets before storing or freezing.
Make your gas go farther; think about all the places you need to visit. Try to make all the stops in one area before going to the next. Better yet, make it a family outing, and take BART or the bus.

The Odds Are 12 to 1

HACA makes 12 payments to your landlord each year. In exchange, we need you to complete our paperwork and allow us to inspect your home once each year. Not bad odds, especially when you realize our average monthly payment is $1,000. In order to continue serving you (and others) we REALLY need your help.

1. Keep copies of your bank statements and check stubs. Use large envelopes, freezer bags, or simple folders to keep your papers organized and all together. Write what’s in each envelope, bag, or file on the outside.

2. Start pulling together, and making copies of, your documents as soon as your packet arrives. Mark on your calendar the date your documents are due and mail them to reach us on time. (If you get them to us early, it gives us time to let you know if you’ve forgotten something.)

3. If you receive TANF, Social Security, SSI or retirement benefits … you’ll need to call or write for written verification (must be dated within 30 days).

4. If you have questions, or need help with the packet, CALL us right away. Do everything you can to be sure your packet is complete AND on time. If your packet is incomplete, we will not accept it when you bring it to our office.

5. Be home for the inspection. We do over 500 inspections each month, and it is VERY difficult for us to reschedule. If you can’t be home, get another adult (18 or older) to be present. The inspector won't come with white gloves, but it is a great opportunity for a little “spring cleaning”. The good news is, if your home passes, we won't be back for a year.

Let's make everyone a winner. Thanks in advance for your cooperation.

Alameda County Community Food Bank

Call 1-800-870-3663 for additional site locations and more information.

Sites:

Ashland Community Center

Bancroft Middle School*

Jefferson Elementary School*

San Leandro Boys and Girls Club*

San Leandro High School*

* Also serves breakfast