Rental Assistance Programs

The Washington County CDA provides help with housing costs to over 650 families through a variety of state and federal programs. The programs we operate are listed below. Unfortunately, many of these programs are not accepting new applications, with the following exception:

Applications will be accepted for the Housing Choice Voucher program waiting list from 9:00 AM, Monday, March 6, 2023 through 4:30 PM, Tuesday, March 7, 2023. Applications can be submitted at any time during the application period. From all applications received, 300 applicant households will be randomly selected for placement on the waiting list. Applicants will be required to have a valid, working email address. Free email accounts are widely available online. Submitting an application does not guarantee an applicant will receive a housing voucher.

Applicants can apply at https://portal.washingtoncountycda.

For applicants without technology access, the CDA office will offer the use of their public computer during business hours. An appointment is required and can be scheduled by calling 651-458-0936. Public computers are also available to use for free at all Washington County Library branches.

Housing Choice Vouchers
(Section 8)

The housing choice voucher program is the federal government’s major program for assisting very low-income families, individuals, the elderly, and the disabled to access affordable housing in the private market. The CDA administers this federal program for all of Washington County with federal funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

If determined eligible participants are able to find their own housing, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. The participant’s rent is based on their household income and the amount of subsidy allowed by the program. The program provides rental assistance which is the difference between the participant’s rent portion and the contract rent. The rental assistance is paid by the CDA directly to the property owner on the first of each month. The assistance is transferable to other units and moves with the participant so long as the participant remains eligible and has not violated any program rules.

Public Housing

We currently operate 49 townhomes, single-family homes, and apartment units throughout the county. Qualifying individuals/families pay up to 30% of their adjusted monthly income for rent. Because assistance is tied to the unit and not to the renter, this type of assistance can’t be transferred. If a participant moves, they lose their assistance.

Washington Cares

This is a federally-funded program for homeless individuals diagnosed with chronic substance abuse or persistent mental illness. Participation requires acceptance to and adherence with a treatment program. This program qualifies individuals for assistance in a specific unit at a specific location. Assistance is not transferable. Please contact Canvas Health at 651-251-5046 for additional information.

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

Public Housing

Washington Cares

Bridges

Housing Choice Vouchers
(Section 8)