BY THE NUMBERS

Moving to Work Plan – According to HUD, Moving to Work (MTW) is a demonstration program for public housing authorities (PHAs) that provides them the opportunity to design and test innovative, locally designed strategies that use federal dollars more efficiently, help residents find employment and become self-sufficient, and increase housing choices for low-income families. The Houston Housing Authority is looking to fully implement the program by early Spring 2023.

Long-term Goals

Northern is acutely aware of the inequities in wealth and services between wealthy and low-income communities. Northern told The Tré “It became painfully evident as families were negatively impacted by the devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey in 2017 and the 2021 freeze. Many who lived in low-income neighborhoods found it difficult to recover, especially since many were hourly workers who lost their jobs in the process. When you can’t pay your rent, you lose out. Without savings or disposable income, many community members in need found it difficult to secure a place to stay. Undoubtedly, our work gives people hope.”

A Fundamental Human Right

Northern believes a key part of the mission is creating more affordable housing. “There’s never enough housing. It is imperative that we nurture and develop relationships with landlords and developers to encourage the growth and expansion of new, affordable housing communities to ensure our most vulnerable have a safe place to live. “What I believe to be true is that shelter is a fundamental human right. It is essential to personal dignity, health, and well-being. It provides protection from violence and oppression. The right to shelter should not be based on wealth, status, gender, or race. Simply put, everyone should have access to safe and secure housing to live in peace and privacy.”

The Houston Housinng Authority is also committed to providing additional support to lowincome, elderly, and disabled residents. Contact HHA if you need assistance obtaining childcare, health care, finishing school, or learning a trade.

A Better Tomorrow

Northern describes himself as a servant leader. “What matters most to me is ensuring the people around me - family, friends, and colleagues - are provided with the care and commitment they deserve. Consequently, I have always felt most comfortable in the affordable housing industry. Knowing that my work positively impacts people’s lives is quite a blessing. I hope that my work continues to give people the confidence and motivation to build for a better tomorrow.”

To see if you qualify, go to housingforhouston.com and access the “Apply for Housing” application portal. HHA provides access to an array of helpful programs and resources in and around Houston.

Website: www.housingforhouston.com

Telephone: (713) 260-0500

Facebook: Houston Housing Authority

Twitter: @Housing4Houston

LinkedIn: Houston Housing Authority

Instagram: @HoustonHousingAuthority

Special Housing Resources: housingforhouston.com/contact-us/