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Supportive housing refers to a combination of housing assistance and supportive services for vulnerable individuals. It aims to provide a stable, long-term housing solution for those struggling with homelessness, mental health issues, and disabilities. In Maryland, several supportive housing options exist, provided by both federal and state resources.
Public housing, fully funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, presents a practical option for low-income families, elderly citizens, and people with disabilities. These apartments or single-family homes are typically managed by local public housing agencies (PHAs). In Maryland, the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) oversees the management of public housing. The tenants' rent contributions are generally limited to 30% of their income.
Another government-backed option is the project-based Section 8 rental assistance program. This program subsidies the rental amount for the tenant, allowing them to contribute only 30% of their income towards rent. Typically, the housing units involved in the program are run by private owners, who enter into contracts with state government agencies for the subsidy.
The Housing Choice Voucher program, commonly known as Section 8 vouchers, allows eligible low-income families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities to choose and lease safe, decent, and affordable privately-owned rental housing. Again, the tenant contributes up to 30% of their income towards rent, and the housing voucher covers the rest.
Rapid Rehousing provides short-term rental assistance and services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness. The goal is to help them quickly move out of homelessness and into permanent housing. On the other hand, Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) programs cater to individuals and families with chronic illnesses, disabilities, mental health issues, or substance use disorders who have experienced long-term or repeated homelessness. The tenants usually have leases in their names, and participation in services is voluntary.
LIHEAP is a federal program that offers financial assistance to qualifying low-income individuals to ensure they can meet their home energy needs. In Maryland, the Office of Home Energy Programs, under the Department of Human Services, administers this program.
Besides these major programs, Maryland offers other assistance in forms of the Maryland Homeowner's Property Tax Credit Program and Renter's Tax Credits, Rehabilitation, and Development Programs, Emergency and Transitional Housing Programs, and services for Veterans. Moreover, a number of private non-profit organizations provide housing assistance and supportive services in Maryland.
In conclusion, the state of Maryland offers various forms of supportive housing options to cater to the needs of the homeless, low-income households, people with disabilities, and the elderly. These programs, subsidized by state and federal funding, aim to provide stable and affordable housing while simultaneously addressing other multidimensional issues faced by these vulnerable populations.