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Supportive housing combines affordable housing with services that help people who face the most complex challenges to live with stability, autonomy, and dignity. In Colorado, a combination of state and federal resources supports an array of housing options for those in need. Options range from subsidized housing programs to supportive services for individuals with disabilities, veterans, the elderly, and those struggling with homelessness.
Subsidized housing programs provide financial assistance to eligible low-income households to reduce their housing costs. Some of the leading subsidy programs in Colorado are outlined below.
The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Colorado Department of Local Affairs' Division of Housing (DOH) administers the program in many parts of the state, with other parts being serviced by local housing authorities. The program allows eligible participants to select a housing unit in the private market and receive a subsidy that reduces their portion of the rental cost.
Another federally funded program, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), helps eligible individuals and families with their energy bills. In Colorado, the program covers both heating and cooling expenses and offers emergency payment assistance to avoid energy service disruptions.
The Colorado Housing and Financing Authority (CHFA) provides several programs aimed at creating, preserving, and investing in affordable housing. These programs include down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers, loans to developers for affordable multi-family rental housing properties, and funding for rental assistance programs and preservation of existing affordable housing.
In addition to subsidized housing programs for low-income residents, Colorado also provides specific housing assistance for special populations.
The DOH administers a variety of specific programs for populations such as the homeless, those at risk of becoming homeless, and persons with disabilities. Programs include the State's Fund for Home Accessibility which provides grants for home modification for persons with disabilities, and the Homeless Prevention Activities Program which helps households that are in danger of becoming homeless maintain their housing.
Thanks to the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program, many homeless or near-homeless veterans and their families in Colorado receive assistance. Funded by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the program provides grants for supportive services to veteran families in transition between permanent housings.
In Colorado, numerous non-profit organizations and federal and state initiatives provide housing services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. These include affordable housing developments specifically for seniors, rental subsidies, in-home care services, and assisted living facilities that combine housing and supportive services for those who need assistance with daily living activities.
Access to affordable and supportive housing is a significant concern in Colorado. From federal and state subsidies to non-profit programs, various supportive housing options exist to cater to the diverse needs of the Colorado population. These initiatives strive to ensure that all residents have a safe and affordable place to call home.