WELCOME

This new webpage at Holy Cross Catholic Church was created to spread the word about programs available now to help Holy Cross families and individuals reduce their cost of living. It is just as important that we accept help when we need it, as it is to give help when we can. Many parishioners qualify but are not using programs and services designed by city, county and state government to reduce the cost of living for those who qualify, and to promote the health, well being, independence, and dignity of all.

Please note: The LIVING webpage is for informational purposes only. Holy Cross does not endorse any particular program and is not responsible for any of the services provided. It is up to the parishioner to give them careful consideration

LIVING RESOURCES

LIVING starts with naming ten AFFORDABLE HOUSING APARTMENT COMPLEXES LOCATED IN MESA LISTED BY THE AREA AGENCY ON AGING that was provided to us by FSL, formerly the Foundation for Senior Living, that is under the auspices of the Diocese of Phoenix. Rent is about $125 to $250 below market. All accept Choice Vouchers (previously called Section 8 vouchers), but availability, income/occupancy limits, and wait times vary widely. These ten apartments’ names, addresses and telephone numbers have been verified by volunteers. The three closest to Holy Cross are listed first.

The Groves Apartments, 2990 S. Power Rd., Mesa 85212 480-610-1141

San Fernando Apartments, 4150 E. Main St., Mesa 85205 480-981-3388

Village at Sun Valley, 7250 E. Billings St., Mesa 85207 480-985-1580

Alma Park Apartments, 718 S. Alma School Rd., Mesa 85210 480-964-9136

Casa Mesa Estates, 1251 S. Mesa Dr., Mesa 85210 480-834-6728

Centennial Village Apartments, 130 W. Brown Rd., Mesa 85201 480-833-6036

El Rancho Apartments, 719 E. Main St., Mesa 85203 480-907-6242

Encore on First, 25 W. First Avenue I & II, Mesa 85210 480-969-0721

Pennytree Apartments, 232 S. Macdonald, Mesa 85210 480-969-0721

Temple Square Townhomes, 324 S. Horne, Mesa 85204 480-656-9019

LIVING offers this information that the FSL HOUSING PROGRAM provides those seeking assistance with their housing needs. FSL was created by the Diocese of Phoenix over 40 years ago and Bishop Dolan plays a major role in it today.

Wait lists are very strictly monitored by the US Housing & Urban Development program (HUD). You may have been told the wait can be up to two years, or possibly longer! Please – do not be discouraged by this estimated time frame; the wait rarely takes that long. It is always advised that you add your name to the lists of all the properties that interest you. Doing so can increase your chances of finding a home sooner.

FSL property list includes all the locations throughout the state, including their Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) properties. If you are not familiar with the LIHTC program, be aware that the tax credit locations DO NOT offer a subsidy, nor does it take into consideration your other expenses. Overseen by the State of Arizona, LIHTC is an IRS program that offers affordable housing to persons whose income is 40, 50 or 60 percent below the average income in the area in which the property is located.

Please contact HUD at 602-379-7181, or the Arizona Public Housing Authority at 602-771-1000 for answers to specific questions regarding these programs.

For more details about the FSL apartments, contact Tracy Cote´ at 602-285-0505 ext. 158 (tcote@fsl.org).

The FSL website FSL.org/real-estate-services offers valuable resources at these links:

FSL Housing FAQs

AAA Affordable Housing List

AAA HUD Senior Subsidized Housing

AAA HUD 811 — Housing for Disabled –listing

Affordable & Low Income Housing

Biltmore Properties Listing

Elderly and Disable Subsidized Apt List

FSL Properties List

Note: At this time, none of the FSL apartments are located in Mesa. All have wait lists at this time. Water, sewer and trash pickup are included at most properties. The vast majority of properties also include electricity. Generally, deposits vary between $250 – $550 with a separate $150 deposit for pets. All deposits are refundable. All accept Section 8 vouchers. FSL does not offer emergency housing. Visit http://www.211.org or dial 211 on your phone for emergency resources. FSL does not offer rental assistance, however, you are welcome to contact the front desk at 602-285-1800 and ask to speak to one of the social workers for advice on outside organizations that offer emergency housing.

LIVING provides this information from HOUSING FOR HOPE, AN AFFILIATE OF CATHOLIC CHARITIES, whose mission is to provide safe, beautiful and affordable housing communities for families, as well as homes for seniors and individuals in Central Arizona. Housingforhopeaz.org/locations/

or email us at h4hproperties@cc-az.org

Housing for Hope’s 13 housing communities throughout Central Arizona offer support services to families so they can be successful in maintaining housing and self sustainability. They are available in select locations in Phoenix, Tempe, Glendale and Goodyear. Note: At this time, none are located in Mesa.

If you would like to look at other options of affordable housing beyond Housing for Hope, please visit HousingSearch.AZ.gov for listings of other rental properties.

LIMITED INCOME ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

LIVING lists contact information in the way of links for CITY OF MESA LIMITED INCOME ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS that reduce costs for those eligible, including for Utilities, Housing, Maintenance and Repair, Food, Activities and Health Services and programs for our residents in need. Most of the programs below do require application and qualification process.

Utilities

Limited Income Senior Rate Program
A 30% discount on the Water Service Rate for seniors with a limited income.

Summer Electric Assistance Program
Utility help program for income-qualified customers residing in Mesa’s Electric Service Area and receiving their electric service from the City (not SRP).

Security and Utility Deposit Program
Aid low-income Mesa families and individuals with the refundable portion of their security and utility deposit. Payments are made directly to the landlord and utility provider.

Affordable Connectivity Program
Program that helps ensure that households can afford the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare and more. This benefit provides a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands.

Mesa Community Action Network
Offers a payment assistance program for utilities and a weatherization program for the repair/replacement of utility-related appliances and systems. The Mesa Community Action Network can help you decrease your energy costs.

Housing

See a complete list of all housing programs

AZ Dept Housing – Homeowner Assistance Fund
Funds to pay homeowner mortgage delinquencies, property tax delinquencies, and HOA delinquencies that could result in foreclosure. HAF funds can also help pay homeowner utility delinquencies and delinquent insurance with a maximum assistance total of $25,000 per household.

Tenants Eviction Assistance
If you have been affected by COVID-19 and fear eviction, have been sued for eviction, or have a judgment against you, contact Community Legal Services at 602-385-8880. They will provide no-cost legal assistance to help with your eviction problems.

The City of Mesa’s Public Housing Authority administers the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, Security Deposit Assistance program, and other rental assistance programs.

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program

The HCV program assists eligible low-income families or individuals in obtaining affordable, decent, sanitary and safe housing in Mesa. Rent is based on the household’s income. The portion of the contract rent paid by the Housing Authority is paid directly to the landlord and the participant pays the difference. For more information, please visit our Wait List Information page.

Eligibility
Elegibilidad (Spanish)

Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV)

Emergency Housing Vouchers are a referral-based program for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. These resources are accessible through Coordinated Entry. If you are experiencing homelessness or know someone who is, please connect with a Coordinated Entry site.

For adults without children visit one of the access points or call the Brian Garcia Welcome Center at 602-229-5155.
For families with minor dependent children,call the Family Housing Hub at 602-595-8700 prior to going in person.

Eligibility for the EHV program
An individual or family must meet one of four eligibility categories:

Homeless
At risk of homelessness
Fleeing, or attempting to flee, domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, or human trafficking
Recently homeless and for whom providing rental assistance will prevent the family’s homelessness or having high risk of housing instability

If you are not currently experiencing homelessness but at risk of losing your housing, contact your local Community Action Agency (www.turnanewleaf.org).

Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Voucher (HUD-VASH) program

The HUD-VASH program is for chronically homeless veterans and their families. The Veterans Administration (VA) in Phoenix provides case management and clinical services at its medical centers and community clinics. For VASH housing program and other veteran services, go to the VA Community Resource & Referral Center at 1500 E. Thomas Rd., Suite 106, Phoenix, AZ 85014, Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., or call 602-248-6040 or 602-568-7843.

Project-Based Voucher (PBV) program

The PBV program vouchers are a referral basis program. The program provides additional housing opportunities for low-income families and individuals. Properties with project-based vouchers are located at Escobedo at Verde Vista, 435 N Hibbert, Mesa, AZ 85201 and La Mesita Apartments, 2254 W Main St., Mesa, AZ 85201.

Eligibility
For eligibility for the PBV program you must be an individual and/or family who has experienced at least 2 episodes of shelter living (emergency and/or transitional housing program) and has a substantiated need for long term case management and supportive services.

For adults without children visit one of the access points or call the Brian Garcia Welcome Center at 602-229-5155.
For families with minor dependent children,call the Family Housing Hub at 602-595-8700 prior to going in person
Eligibility.
Elegibilidad(Spanish)

Family Self-Sufficiency Program (FSS)

FSS is a voluntary HUD program designed to assist families in the voucher rental assistance program to achieve self-sufficiency through education, training, and employment. Participants will identify career goals and establish a plan to achieve those goals, connect with community resources and services, and receive case management services and encouragement. For more information, please visit our Current Participants page.

Family Unification Program (FUP)

This program assists families involved in the child welfare system who face unstable housing and homelessness. It also serves youth ages 18 to 24 who have left foster care and lack adequate shelter, who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Contact your caseworker with the Department of Child Safety (DCS) for more information or to apply, visit: https://dcs.az.gov/housing-voucher-application-request

Shelter Plus Care (S+C)

The S+C program provides permanent housing along with supportive services to homeless people with disabilities and their families. The goals are to increase housing stability, skills and/or income, and obtain a greater self-sufficiency. Applicants are referred to the City of Mesa Housing Authority by Save the Family. For more information, contact Save the Family at (480) 898-0228.

Housing Solutions

Housing Solutions provides homeless families and individuals with their application fees and utility assistance. Housing Solutions also provides an incentive to landlords when they assist current housing assistance participants. For more information, please visit our Landlords page.

PHA Housing Plans

Links

Payment standards(effective 1/1/23).
Utility allowance(effective 1/1/23)
Arizona Landlord Tenant Act.
Find housing options by visiting myhousingsearch.comor call 1-877-428-8844.
Resource List.

Note: Click on the City of Mesa Limited Income Assistance Programs webpage for information as it is updated. mesaaz.gov/residents/limited-income-assistance-programs

PUBLIC NOTICES

View recordings of public forums held in January 2023 to gather community input on the needs and gaps surrounding housing, homelessness, and community services.

Notice of Availability of the Proposed Public Housing Authority FY2023/2024 Annual Plan – Draft

For accommodations, such as braille, large print, or translation, contact City of Mesa Housing and Community Development at (480) 644-3536, or AzRelay 7-1-1 for those who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Si necesita información en español por favor de llamar al 480-644-3536.

Free viewers are required for some of the attached documents.
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MAINTENANCE & REPAIR

Homeowner Rehab Program
Federal assistance through a grant to address household repairs that affect the immediate livability of the home. Repairs are limited, and help is based on the priority of the emergency.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors
Assisting residents experiencing difficulties in maintaining the exterior of their homes.

Tool Lending Program
Residents can borrow a variety of tools, free of charge, for home projects.

FOOD

Go to 211arizona.org/help/food/ or Click on Food Resources for live links to categories below.

Children and Teens

+

Community Meals and Nutrition

+

Emergency Food

+

Gardening and Community Gardens

+

Holiday Meals

+

Home Delivered Meals

+

Public Food Benefits

+

ACTIVITIES

Mesa Recreation Scholarship
This fee assistance program allows eligible residents to participate in quality youth and adaptive recreation activities at a 50% discount. Eligibility for the program is determined by completing an application and supplying any necessary documentation before registering for programs.

Arizona Museum of Natural History (AZMNH)
EBT cardholders can receive a discounted museum admission of $2 per person for up to 6 family members. Eligible visitors need to provide a valid state-issued driver’s license or ID card that matches the name on the EBT card. AZMNH discounted rate is possible through the Museums for All signature access program.

i.d.e.a. Museum
EBT or WIC cardholders can receive a family museum membership for $20 for six people for one year. These memberships are limited.

HEALTH

Prescription Discount Card Program
Free prescription drug discount cards are available to Mesa residents through a program sponsored by the National League of Cities (NLC). The discount cards offer city residents average savings of 20 percent off the retail price of commonly prescribed drugs.

Can’t find what you need? Visit 2-1-1 Arizona for more assistance programs throughout the state.

HUMAN SERVICES

LIVING lists selected links for information from MARICOPA COUNTY’S HUMAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT (HSD).

DHS provides and coordinates essential support and services to vulnerable populations to enhance economic, educational, and social opportunities and strengthen communities.

QUICK LINKS

Note: Click on the HSD webpage for information as it is updated. maricopa.gov/5270/Human-Services

COMMON REQUESTS

Help with Bills

maricopa.gov/5883/Apply-for-Help

Maricopa County’s Human Services Department (HSD) offers a variety of assistance programs to help eligible county residents navigate difficult circumstances and restore emotional, social, and economic well-being by providing financial, educational, career, legal, and other support services. To apply, please fill out the online application available within the Client Portal.

Senior/Adult Services

Apply for Head Start

Home Repairs

Find a Job

Help with Rent & Utilities

Note:Click on the HSD webpage for information as it is updated. maricopa.gov/5270/Human-Services

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE

Maricopa County households experiencing financial hardship may be eligible for Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) through the Human Services Department’s Community Services Division.

Qualified households can receive up to six (6) months of payments for the following:

Rental assistance
Utility assistance for electric, gas, water, sewer, and/or trash

Payments can be made for past due, owed, and/or future rental and utility bills based on funding availability and payment history.

Clients who have received six (6) or more months of assistance in the past will have the opportunity to engage in support services provided by Maricopa County’s Human Services Department Community Services Division, but will not be eligible for additional ongoing ERA payments.

Prioritization

The funds are intended for those most in need. According to federal guidelines, applications for assistance will be prioritized using the following criteria:

Households living at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI)
Households with one or more members that have been unemployed for the past 90 days at time of applicationandliving at or below 80% AMI

Additionally, applications will be prioritized based on the following system:

0 = No identified impact based on applicant’s response
1 = Low level of impact based on applicant’s response
2 = High priority as client has indicated they have been impacted and meet the eligibility guidelines
3 = Repeat applicants that have previously received ERA assistance and may be eligible for further assistance — if the six (6) month cap has not been met.

Availability

Maricopa County Human Services Department will serve eligible county residents living outside the cities of Glendale, Mesa, and Phoenix.

Note: Proof of citizenship or immigration status and Social Security Number are not required in the Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program and households do not need to provide documentation for either.

See complete details at maricopa.gov/5691/Emergency-Rental-Assistance/.

ECONOMIC SERVICES

LIVING lists contact information for the DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC SERVICES (DES) OF THE STATE OF ARIZONA.

The Department of Economic Security (DES) is the safety net agency for the State of Arizona. As one of the largest agencies in state government, DES serves more than 2 million Arizonans annually through more than 40 programs that address the social and economic needs of those we serve.

Here is a list of main services provided by DES, classified by the DES client’s needs:

Basic Needs

Child & Family

Employment

Older Adults

Disabilities

Developmental Disabilities
Early Intervention Program(Developmental Disabilities – Infants & Toddlers)
Achieving a Better Life Experience
Independent Living for the Blind & Employment

Employers

Note: Click on the State of Arizona Department of Economic Services webpage for information as it is updated. des.az.gov

DISCLOSURE

Please note: The LIVING webpage is for informational purposes only. Holy Cross does not endorse any particular program and is not responsible for any of the services provided. It is up to the parishioner to give them careful consideration.

Holy Cross

Catholic Parish

Mesa Arizona

Living Resources

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