Completed by:

The Unsilenced Advocacy Team

Housing

Affordable Housing/ Homelessness 

Section 8 Housing (HUD Vouchers)

  • Section 8 of the Housing Act of 1937 created a program by which low income individuals or families can apply for a housing voucher through the US Government. This voucher can be used to pay for privately owned housing so long as it meets program requirements (In other words, those who have a HUD voucher are not limited to government subsidized housing).
  • This link to the website of The Department of Housing and Urban Development(HUD) can answer questions about whether you are eligible, and how to apply

Temporary Housing

  • Temporary housing can be an apartment, condo, or house. A primary benefit of temporary housing is that the rented place comes furnished, making it ideal for in-between lodging. Temporary housing also offers more flexibility and convenience than alternatives and sometimes covers all bases, including utilities and bath products.
    • Extended Stay Hotels: Extended Stay America, for example, has over 600 hotels across the U.S. and provide amenities such as a full-sized fridge, free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, on-site laundry facilities, and free grab-and-go breakfast. Some locations also have pet-friendly accommodations, pools, hot tubs, and fitness centers.
    • Traditional Hotels: This lodging is typically intended for a few days, as they tend to be more costly.

Rental Homes and Apartments

  • These are often the cleaner and more affordable alternative to long-term hotel stays. Rental homes and apartments are larger and also offer flexibility.

Finding a roommate

  • Prior to searching for a new roommate, it is important to determine which qualities best suit your needs. Some might be searching for a friend while other may want someone who is simply quiet, tidy, and does not interfere with general obligations. Someone with poor credit or rental history may be looking for the opposite in a roommate. The reason for wanting a roommate and the relationship desired should both be considered when interviewing.
  • Questions to ask may include hobbies and interests, reliability (employment status, income stability, schedule, rental history, and credit score), pets, allergies, opinions on guests, etc. Here are some additional potential questions. It is also normal to ask for a background check or references. (Safety first!)
  • You should also consider what exactly you are looking for: a new roommate and a new apartment, a new roommate for your current apartment, or a renter who already has an apartment with a spare room and is looking for a roommate. You should also be in agreement about budget and lease length.
  • Free roommate finder sites and apps:
  • Other ways to find roommates:
    • Mutual connections
    • Social media (such as Reddit or Facebook)—you can either post about your quest for a roommate on your personal account or request to join local roommate search groups

Things to Consider Before Committing

  • Size
  • Price
  • Amenities
  • Location
  • Other provided items (such as dishes, towels, etc.)
  • Whether or not there is a property manager on-site
  • Any specific packages provided
  • Insurance
  • Discounts for longer stays
  • Minimum and maximum length of stay
  • Ability to prolong rental
  • Security deposit and refund-ability
  • Pet regulations, deposit, rent, etc.
  • Receiving mail and packages
  • What is included in rent (including utilities and usage)
  • Protocol in cause of a maintenance emergency
  • Any planned construction
  • Guest policy

Rental assistance 

States and counties offer rental assistance programs.

Is there a resource we are missing? Please email us at info@unsilenced.org so we may add it.