|
|
|
|
| QUICK LINKS |
|
FOLLOW BHC ON:
|
|
GOVERNOR BOB MCDONNELL TOURS LINCOLN MEWS
ANNOUNCES VIRGINIA'S FIRST EXECUTIVE HOUSING POLICY
On the morning of Wednesday, April 28, Governor Bob McDonnell toured BHC's newly-renovated apartment community in Northside, Lincoln Mews. During his visit, the governor announced his plan to create Virginia's first executive housing policy. The comprehensive policy will promote an increase in sustainable, affordable housing as well as effective coordination of transportation.
"Affordable and safe housing is a fundamental component of healthy and prosperous communities. Every Virginian deserves a safe, warm and secure residence to call their own," commented McDonnell.
Lincoln Mews resident Willie James and Gov. Bob McDonnell |
Willie James, a resident Lincoln Mews, looks forward to learning more of the policy details when they are annouced. His move to Lincoln Mews changed his life. The new energy-efficient appliances and features have significantly lowered his monthly energy costs, making life on a retirement income easier. The physical transformation of the apartments, including the construction of a new community center, also encourages interaction among residents and has lowered crime in the area.
The governor has formed a Housing Policy Advisory Committee, which will be comprised of representatives from state government, private industry groups, local governments, and nonprofit housing providers and consumer representatives. Senior economic advisor to the governor and former BHC board member Bob Sledd will chair the committee. The policy is expected to be finished this fall. |
|
|
SAFETY NET GRANT PROGRAM AIDS FAMILIES IN DIFFICULT ECONOMY
Through May 20, the Safety Net Fund of The Community Foundation has prevented homelessness for 25 BHC families. Sixteen children are among those assisted. This internal rental assistance program is especially important during this difficult economy, as it helps families recover from a gap in their ability to pay rent due to job loss, short term disability issues, or one time crisis situations.
The families who have been assisted by the Safety Net Fund are typical of many of the households in BHC communities, living-paycheck-to-paycheck. When they are faced with a crisis, they have to make very difficult choices. The one month grant means the difference in having a place to live or not.
BHC has allocated $18,437.70 of the Safety Net Fund for an average rent amount of $683 per family. At the current rate of usage, BHC will be able to provide assistance to 50 families through nearly the end of 2010. As the economy improves, BHC hopes that the crucial need for the safety net funding will decline. The Safety Net Fund has, however, provided a much needed lifeline to families in our communities. |
|
VOLUNTEERS HELP BHC TRANSFORM COMMUNITIES
Volunteers at Spring Hill | BHC thanks the volunteers who contributed to the landscaping of Lincoln Mews during Affordable Housing Awareness Week, as well as the volunteers who painted porches at Spring Hill on Church Hill. Your efforts are much appreciated by our residents.
For upcoming volunteer opportunities, visit Better Housing Coalition's page on Facebook. Please show your support for BHC and become a fan! |
|
|
|
|
804-644-0546
Better Housing Coalition changes lives and transforms communities
through high quality, affordable housing.
| |
|
Where you live can change your life. You can help.
BHC Charity Campaign Codes:
United Way, 3158
Combined Virginia Campaign (CVC), 3624 |
|
|
|
|
