December 9, 2024

The Voucher Voice

December 2024 Housing Choice Voucher Program Resident Newsletter

CEO Message

Listening and Leading

Dear Residents,

As we approach the end of the year, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that we’ve accomplished together in 2024. It has been a year of progress, growth, and renewed commitment to ensuring that every resident has a safe, comfortable place to call home.

At County Housing, we are grateful for the opportunity to serve you and provide housing that supports stability and opportunity. In 2024, we worked hard to improve our services, enhance communication, and strengthen partnerships with community organizations to better meet your needs. We know there is always more to do, and we are committed to making 2025 even better.

As winter sets in, please be mindful of safety and comfort in your homes. If you have any maintenance needs, we encourage you to reach out directly to your landlord for assistance. Additionally, if you have questions about available resources, don’t hesitate to seek support. Stay safe and warm this season! Thank you for trusting us as your housing partner and for being part of this community. We look forward to continuing to serve you in the year ahead. Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a happy New Year!

Warmly,

Shannon Koenig
CEO, County Housing

Feature Story

Understanding Small Area Fair Market Rents (SAFMRs): What It Means for You

At County Housing, we are adopting new standards to improve the way we set rents and provide rental assistance, ensuring our residents have access to safe, affordable housing in neighborhoods that best meet their needs. These changes will impact how we determine rental assistance amounts, making it even more important for residents to understand Small Area Fair Market Rents (SAFMRs) and what they mean for you.

What Are Small Area Fair Market Rents (SAFMRs)?

SAFMRs are a version of Fair Market Rents (FMRs) that focus on smaller geographic areas, such as ZIP codes, rather than larger metropolitan regions. This helps us account for rent variations in different neighborhoods and ensures that housing assistance reflects local market conditions more accurately.

Why Are We Making This Change?

By adopting SAFMRs, County Housing is aligning with best practices to better serve our residents. This shift allows us to provide rental assistance that is more responsive to local market conditions, ensuring equity and flexibility in where voucher holders can live.

How Do SAFMRs Benefit Residents?

By using SAFMRs, County Housing can offer more flexibility in where voucher holders can live. In areas with higher rents, SAFMRs provide increased rental assistance, which gives residents more access to neighborhoods with better amenities, schools, and job opportunities. At the same time, in areas with lower rents, SAFMRs ensure that assistance levels align with the actual cost of housing, preventing overpayment.

How Does This Impact Your Housing Choice Voucher?

Residents using Housing Choice Vouchers (HCVs) may see adjustments to the rental assistance amounts based on the new SAFMR for their area. If you live in a higher-cost ZIP code, your voucher may cover more of the rent, giving you greater housing options. If your ZIP code has lower average rents, you might notice an adjustment, but our goal is to ensure every resident has access to safe, affordable housing in neighborhoods that best meet their needs.

Want to Learn More?

We understand that changes to housing policies can raise questions. Get more information on how SAFMRs work or how they may affect your voucher, or visit the Housing Voucher Program webpage, where we provide detailed resources and FAQs. You can also reach out to our team if you need personalized assistance.

County Housing remains committed to supporting you in finding and maintaining a home that fits your needs. Thank you for being part of our community!

Safe and Sound

Tips to Prevent Theft and Keep Your Home Secure

At County Housing, your safety is our priority. While we work to maintain secure communities, there are steps you can take to help prevent theft and protect your personal belongings. Below are a few simple tips to keep your home and neighborhood safe.

1. Lock Doors and Windows

Always lock your doors and windows, even when you’re home or just stepping out briefly.
Use deadbolts and window locks for extra security.

2. Keep Valuables Out of Sight

Avoid leaving expensive items like electronics, cash, or jewelry visible from windows.
Store bicycles, grills, and other outdoor items in a secure location.

3. Light Up Your Space

Use outdoor lights to brighten entryways, patios, and parking areas at night.
Consider using motion-sensor lights to deter unwanted visitors.

4. Get to Know Your Neighbors

Build relationships with neighbors to create a watchful and supportive community.
Report any suspicious activity to local authorities or property management.

5. Secure Your Vehicle

Always lock your car doors and never leave valuables inside.
Park in well-lit areas whenever possible.

6. Be Aware of Package Deliveries

If you receive packages, try to be home when they arrive or ask a neighbor to hold them for you.
Consider using package delivery lockers or services to keep items safe.

7. Report Maintenance Issues Promptly

A broken lock, damaged window, or burned-out exterior light can create an opportunity for theft.
To ensure your safety and comfort, notify your landlord immediately if you notice any maintenance issues in your home. Prompt reporting helps resolve problems quickly and keeps your home secure.

By taking these small steps, you help make our community safer and more secure for everyone. We appreciate your efforts in keeping your home and neighborhood theft-free!

If you have any concerns about safety or need additional resources, please reach out to our team. Together, we can build a safer, stronger community.

Stay safe and sound!

Community Connect

Supporting Our Community Together.

Welcome to “Community Connect,” a section dedicated to supporting our County Housing community together. Here, you’ll find resources, events, and initiatives designed to strengthen our neighborhoods, foster connections, and provide you with the tools and information you need. Together, we can continue to build a thriving community where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Discover Amazing Offerings from St. Louis County Library

Did you know the St. Louis County Library offers a variety of free programs and services to support families and individuals in our community? You don’t even need to be a library cardholder to take advantage of many of these incredible offerings!

Here are just a few of the ways the library is making a difference:

After School Meals & Summer Lunches
In partnership with Operation Food Search, select library branches provide free after-school meals and summer lunches for children ages 5–18.
Diaper Assistance
Families in need can pick up a monthly supply of diapers or training pants for children ages 3 and under through the library’s partnership with the St. Louis Area Diaper Bank. This service is available at select library branches.
Headspace Access
Library cardholders can enjoy free access to Headspace, an online resource offering meditation and mindfulness techniques to help you relax, focus, and improve overall well-being.

The St. Louis County Library is dedicated to enriching the lives of residents. Be sure to take advantage of these valuable resources by visiting your nearest library branch or exploring their offerings online at www.slcl.org to find library locations and more!

Managing Holiday Stress

Wellness Tips for a Peaceful Season

The holiday season is often filled with joy and celebration, but it can also bring added stress. Between shopping, planning events, and managing expectations, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Here are some simple wellness tips to help you stay balanced and enjoy the season to the fullest.

1. Set a Budget and Stick to It
Holiday spending can quickly add up but creating a budget can help you avoid financial stress. Create a list of necessary purchases and set limits on gifts, meals, and other expenses. Remember that meaningful gifts don’t have to be expensive—thoughtful gestures like homemade gifts or shared experiences can mean more than store-bought items.

2. Manage Your Time Wisely
With so many events and obligations, time can feel scarce during the holidays. Try making a schedule that prioritizes important activities and leaves room for rest. It’s okay to say no to things that don’t fit into your plans or that may add unnecessary stress.

3. Prioritize Self-Care
Amid the holiday hustle, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Whether it’s a walk outside, reading a book, or spending quiet time alone, carve out moments to recharge. Remember that a well-rested mind helps you handle stress better and be present for others.

4. Stay Active and Eat Mindfully
Physical activity is a great way to relieve stress. Even a short walk can boost your mood and energy. While it’s natural to enjoy holiday treats, try to maintain a balanced diet. Drinking plenty of water and limiting sugary foods can help you stay energized throughout the season.

5. Connect with Loved Ones
The holidays are a time to strengthen relationships. Whether through family traditions, friendly gatherings, or a simple phone call, connecting with those you care about can bring joy and reduce stress. However, if being with certain people causes anxiety, it’s okay to set healthy boundaries.

6. Practice Gratitude
Focusing on what you are grateful for can shift your mindset and reduce stress. Start or end each day by reflecting on a few things you appreciate, whether big or small. Sharing these moments of gratitude with others can also lift their spirits.

7. Reach Out for Support When Needed
If the holiday season feels overwhelming, you don’t have to go through it alone. Talk to friends, family, or community members for support. If stress becomes unmanageable, consider speaking with a counselor or accessing local mental health resources.

This holiday season, give yourself the gift of peace by focusing on what matters most—your well-being. With a little planning and mindfulness, you can reduce stress, savor the joy of the season, and head into the new year feeling refreshed.

From all of us at County Housing, we wish you a joyful and peaceful holiday season!

Understanding Renters’ Insurance

What You Need to Know

Renters’ insurance can be a valuable way to protect your personal belongings from unexpected events like theft or damage. While County Housing cannot require residents to purchase renters’ insurance, we encourage you to consider the benefits it offers for your peace of mind.

Renters’ insurance typically covers:

Personal property damage due to theft, fire, or water damage.
Liability coverage if someone is injured in your home.
Additional living expenses if your unit becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event.

Although it’s not mandatory, renters’ insurance is an affordable option to safeguard your belongings and avoid potential out-of-pocket expenses in the event of an emergency.

For more information about renters’ insurance, please reach out to your local insurance provider or check with community organizations that may offer resources.

Let’s work together to ensure you and your family have the tools and information to feel secure in your home!

Fair Housing Fact: Know Your Rights!

What is Housing Discrimination?

Housing discrimination occurs when a person is treated unfairly in a housing-related situation because of their race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. It’s important to recognize the various forms housing discrimination can take, as this knowledge can empower individuals to stand up for their rights.

Here are some common examples of housing discrimination:

Denial of Housing: A landlord refuses to rent to a tenant based on their race, religion, or familial status, despite meeting all application requirements.

Different Terms and Conditions: A landlord offers different rental terms to applicants based on their national origin, such as higher security deposits or different payment schedules.

Refusal to Make Reasonable Accommodations: A landlord fails to allow a tenant with a disability to make necessary modifications to their unit, such as installing grab bars in the bathroom.

Harassment or Intimidation: A tenant experiences hostile behavior or threats from a landlord or neighbors because of their race, sex, or disability.

It’s crucial to know that housing discrimination is illegal, and you have rights that protect you from unfair treatment. If you suspect you have faced discrimination, it’s essential to document your experiences and seek help.

For more information on housing discrimination and how to file a complaint, please visit our website or contact the County Housing office. Together, we can create a fair and equitable housing environment for everyone.

Updates and Announcements

Holiday Office Closure: December 24th – January 1st

As the holiday season approaches, County Housing will be closing our offices at noon on December 24th and will remain closed through January 1st to allow our dedicated staff to enjoy this special time with their loved ones. We will resume normal operations on January 2nd.

We encourage our residents and partners to reach out to us before the closure for any urgent matters.

We wish everyone a joyful and peaceful holiday season and look forward to serving you in the new year!