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PATHWorks Newsletter: July 2024
Success Stories - Employment - Finances - Asset Building - Community Events - Housing Works Updates - Resources
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Nichole's Journey to Homeownership: A Story of Resilience and Triumph
Nichole's journey began in January 2019 when she received a Housing Choice Voucher, providing much-needed stability after her and her son had been living with family. Eager to pursue her dreams, she joined the FSS/PATHWorks program in March 2019. At that time, Nichole was working full-time as a Provider Matching Coordinator at Shasta Administrative Services but had bigger aspirations—homeownership. She knew her income alone wasn't enough to achieve this goal.
As a dedicated mother, Nichole understood that the path to homeownership required financial discipline. She meticulously tracked her expenses, adjusted her budget, and set ambitious goals for saving and reducing debt. Recognizing the need for reliable transportation, she purchased a 2016 Toyota Tacoma in June 2019.
In April 2020, Nichole moved into Housing Works Tutor Home program, a "homeownership in training” program. This move marked a pivotal chapter in her journey. Driven by a desire to improve her financial situation, Nichole made significant career changes, transitioning from Shasta Administrative Services to Advantage Dental as a Front Desk Receptionist in August 2020, where she experienced a substantial wage increase. She later joined PacificSource Case Management, further enhancing her financial stability. Nichole continuously strives for more, seeking raises and promotions as they become available, to further increase her income and secure a better future for her and her son.
Nichole's journey was filled with moments of triumph. From securing higher-paying positions to navigating the complexities of the housing market, each milestone brought her closer to her dream of homeownership. Despite challenges, such as resolving an error from the DMV regarding her vehicle's branded title, which temporarily increased her debt-to-income ratio until she could get that resolved and sell her vehicle, Nichole remained steadfast in her determination.
Through continuously adjusting her budget as needed, strategic financial planning, and unwavering resolve, Nichole steadily advanced toward her goal. The turning point came in 2023 when her perseverance paid off. Her previous pre-approvals for home loans were insufficient for Central Oregon’s housing market, but she finally received a high enough pre-approval amount to begin a thorough home search. Though some homes she considered weren’t the right fit, Nichole never gave up.
Then, in the beginning of 2024, Nichole was told about the Skygate ground lease home in Sisters, OR that would be going on the market, and it was the perfect home for her and her son. Through a combination of efforts and community partnerships, Nichole closed on the purchase of her new home at the end of May marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. She achieved this by increasing her income, improving her credit score, reducing her debt-to-income ratio, and increasing her savings. She utilized her VIDA matched savings for debt repayment and her down payment, benefiting from the Economic Equity Investment Program (EEIP), which converted a portion of her funds from a 5:1 to a 10:1 match. Additionally, she used her FSS Escrow savings accumulated during her time in the FSS/PATHWorks program for debt repayment and down payment costs. Nichole also received a $2,400 grant upon graduating from the Tutor Home program for down payment costs, as well as down payment assistance from Housing Works and NeighborImpact. It's a combination of these crucial supports and programs that complemented Nichole's hard work and perseverance, demonstrating the significant impact of community initiatives in helping individuals achieve their dreams of homeownership.
Nichole's story is a shining example of what can be achieved through resilience, resourcefulness, and community support. We are incredibly proud of Nichole's accomplishments and wish her all the best as she embarks on this exciting new chapter in her life.
Congratulations, Nichole, on your incredible journey to homeownership!
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Is the PATHWorks program for you?
Check out Housing Works PATHWorks video: Stories of Transformation
See how this voluntary program available to Housing Choice Voucher holders can support you to achieve your goals!
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COIC/WorkSource: Empowering Central Oregon's Workforce Through Comprehensive Career Services and Partnerships | | |
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Central Oregon Intergovernmental Council (COIC) plays an essential role in shaping the career trajectories of numerous individuals in Central Oregon. More than just a hub for basic career guidance, COIC offers a comprehensive range of services designed to support job seekers at every stage of their employment journey to provide them with an Individual Employment Plan (IEP). These services include:
- personalized resume and cover letter creation,
- employment skills coaching,
- and skills development through a one-on-one approach.
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Additionally, COIC provides access to numerous scholarship opportunities, enabling individuals to pursue further training or certification that can elevate their careers.
For eligible individuals, COIC also offers On-the-Job Training (OJT) opportunities, where up to 50% of a worker's salary can be subsidized to facilitate entry into a new industry. This initiative helps bridge the gap for those looking to transition into different career fields, making the process more accessible and financially feasible.
Moreover, COIC/WorkSource hosts the Rapid Response program, which is poised to deliver a wide array of services swiftly and efficiently to employees affected by company closures. The Re-Entry program, operating out of Deer Ridge Correctional Institution, prepares soon-to-be-released inmates for reintegration into the workforce, ensuring they have the necessary tools and support to succeed post-incarceration. To further extend its reach, COIC also operates a mobile employment van, providing critical employment services to rural and frontier populations, thereby ensuring that no one is left without access to these vital resources.
COIC highly values its partnership with Housing Works and offers expedited services for Housing Works clients. These specialized services are available to FSS/PATHWorks participants:
- In Redmond: Tuesdays from 9:00 am - 11:00 am and Fridays from 1:00 pm - 3:00
Address: 2158 SE College Loop, Suite B, Redmond, OR 97756
- And in Bend: Mondays from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm.
Address: 1645 NE Forbes Rd. Suite # 101, Bend, OR 97701
This collaboration underscores COIC's commitment to serving the community comprehensively and efficiently.
In Summary, COIC/WorkSource is a cornerstone in the employment landscape of Central Oregon, offering robust support and resources to job seekers, whether they are entering the workforce for the first time, transitioning between industries, or re-entering society after incarceration. Through its diverse programs and dedicated partnerships, COIC/WorkSource continues to empower individuals to achieve their career goals and enhance their lives.
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CFPB: 25 Tips to Impprove Your Financial Well-Being
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) "Get Money Smart: 25 Tips to Improve Your Financial Well-being," offers essential insights and practical advice to empower you to take control of your finances. Covering topics from budgeting and saving, to managing credit and debt, this guide provides a roadmap to help you achieve financial security and peace of mind. Explore the tips listed below and read the full article for more detailed information
25 Tips to Improve your Financial Well-Being
1. Answer a 10 question quiz to see how healthy your finances are.
2. Learn where your money is coming from. Start by tracking your sources of income.
3. Learn where your money is going. Fill out the spending tracker to get a sense of your regular expenses.
4. Write your bill due dates on a calendar.
5. Create a working budget that matches your cash flow.
6. Request new due dates for your bills that help you stay on track that better align with you income.
7. Compare your spending month-to-month.
8. Give yourself financial security with an emergency savings fund.
9. Set rules for your emergency savings–but don’t be afraid to use it.
10. Make saving easy by making it automatic.
11. Put extra money into savings at times when you have it.
12. Use your tax refund to help you reach financial goals.
13. Before making a plan to pay down your debts, know what you owe.
14. Choose a debt reduction strategy that works best for you.
15. Learn about federal and private student loans repayment options.
16. In the market for a car? Negotiating can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars over the life of your loan.
17. Apply only for credit you need.
18. Set an annual reminder to check your credit reports for any errors.
19. Set up alerts to stay on top of your checking account balance and avoid overdraft fees.
20. If you can’t make a bill payment, act fast and call your creditors.
21. When shopping for a loan, get quotes from at least three lenders to save money and compare terms and fees. This is true for home loans as well as other types of loans, including auto loans.
22. When planning for the future, set SMART financial goals.
23. Set up a 529 savings plan for your children.
24. Make your savings consistent.
25. Prepare for life events and large purchases by planning ahead.
By following these tips, you can build a strong foundation for a stable financial future and navigate life's expenses with confidence. Take the time to explore the full article for in-depth advice on each of these practical tips and start your journey toward improved financial well-being today.
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Mental Health - The Foundational Asset Building Tool
Mental health is a foundational personal asset that profoundly impacts an individual's well-being and overall quality of life. Just as physical health is essential for optimal functioning, mental health is a vital asset that contributes to resilience, productivity, and fulfillment.
When your mental health is strong, you can effectively manage stress, navigate challenges, and maintain healthy relationships. This resilience enables you to adapt to life's ups and downs, pursue goals, and contribute meaningfully to your family and community. Furthermore, good mental health promotes cognitive functioning, creativity, and problem-solving skills, all of which enhance one's ability to learn and grow personally and professionally.
Investing in mental health is akin to investing in other assets like education or financial stability. It requires attention, resources, and support systems that promote mental well-being. Access to mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care, plays a crucial role in preserving and enhancing this asset.
Fostering within yourself a culture of understanding, acceptance, and de-stigmatization around mental health is essential. It encourages you to seek help when needed, prioritize self-care, and builds resilience. Ultimately, recognizing mental health as an asset underscores its intrinsic value and the importance of nurturing it for a fulfilling and productive life.
Finding the right type of counselor for you can take patience. You want to build a trusting relationship with whomever you choose to work with. If you don’t feel that connection with the mental health professional you chose, then choose another one until you find the right fit. A good counselor can help you gain insight into your challenges and provide tools and a new perspective to build your mental health assets.
You can search the Psychology Today website by city, counseling type, insurance type and more to learn about the services and experience of the counselors in your area. This is a great resource, so use this link to explore the counselors in your area. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists
Start investing in your metal health today, just like growing a financial asset, your future will be brighter because you put in the effort!
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Summer Grocery Benefit for Kids (Summer EBT)
SUN Bucks is a new U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) grocery benefit for families with school-aged children.
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Families with eligible school-aged children can get $120 per child to buy groceries during the summer.
- Families can receive SUN Bucks on top of other benefits like SNAP and WIC.
- School-aged children can receive free SUN Meals from local meal sites or with SUN Meals To-Go.
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Teal: Participating | Orange: Plans to participate | Green: Tribes within the state are participating | Gray: Not participating | |
Housing Works Locations and Hours | |
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Redmond Main Office
405 SW 6th Street
Redmond, OR 97756
Phone) 541-923-1018
Fax) 541-923-6441
Text) 541-286-5562
Business Hours:
Monday to Thursday, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Closed Friday
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Bend Satellite Office
2017 NE Full Moon Dr. Suite #100
Bend, OR 97701
Phone) 458-281-0813
Fax) 458-281-0815
Text) 541-286-5562
Business Hours:
Tuesday to Thursday, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Closed Monday & Friday
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Exterior doors will be locked outside of these hours. A drop box is conveniently placed on the front of each building for easy access, should you need to turn in paperwork after hours.
*Appointments with Housing Specialist are by appointment only.
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Housing Works Adding 45 Affordable Apartments in Bend
Housing Works will be developing 45 units of workforce housing on a 1.43-acre site in the Bend Medical District offering views of snow capped peaks, aptly named, Nine Peaks. The development will provide nicely equipped one, two, and three-bedroom apartments with 12 apartments serving those who qualify for Mainstream vouchers that assist non-elderly persons with a disability and their families. The remaining 33 apartments will serve a wide variety of those in need of affordable housing with a spectrum of services at their doorstep. The Nine Peaks development will provide easy access to transportation, employment, medical, shopping, and a dignified place for Bend residents to call home.
Funding for the development includes Low Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC), HOME, and GHAP from Oregon Housing and Community Services, bank financing, and an investment from Housing Works. Construction is planned to start in March 2025 and is expected to be completed by Summer 2026. As an affordable property, income restrictions will apply, and rents will be substantially below market rate.
If you or someone you know is interested in living in this new community, please watch the following websites, www.housing-works.org and www.epicopenings.net for information about waiting list opening dates, eligibility and the application process. Applications are usually accepted two months prior to construction completion.
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Important Update: Changes to Housing Choice Voucher Program Inspections
Dear Tenants and Community Advocates,
Central Oregon Voucher holders will soon experience an upcoming change from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that will impact our local housing landscape. Starting in October 2024, HUD will be transitioning from the Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspection model to the National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate (NSPIRE).
NSPIRE, or the National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate, is a new physical inspection model designed to reduce health and safety hazards in homes. It aligns multiple HUD programs to a single set of inspection standards, ensuring consistent housing quality expectations across all HUD programs.
HUD has been testing NSPIRE at volunteer properties during the two-year NSPIRE Demonstration, gathering feedback from inspectors and properties to refine and improve the inspection model. Updates to standards and scoring will occur every three years at a minimum.
NSPIRE is expected to revolutionize the assessment of housing conditions for HUD-assisted and HUD-insured housing by providing consistent, defensible, and objective evaluations. This new approach will produce inspection results that more accurately reflect property conditions and promote better living conditions for residents. Housing Works will begin implementing NSPIRE protocols starting October 2024.
The NSPIRE changes will impact all real estate organizations managing properties receiving HUD assistance. Organizations will need to ensure their properties meet the new inspection standards. The focus on objective, consistent, and accurate inspections may lead to more rigorous assessments, potentially resulting in a higher number of deficiencies identified and a greater need for timely repairs and maintenance.
However, NSPIRE also presents an opportunity for organizations to improve property quality and provide better living conditions for tenants. By prioritizing health and safety and adopting sound maintenance practices, organizations can distinguish themselves as responsible property owners.
As the local Housing Authority, we believe it's important to connect with our community to offer assistance and support during this transition. If you have any questions or could benefit from either a group or personalized training regarding NSPIRE, please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
We will continue to provide updates and accurate information about NSPIRE to our colleagues and clients. Thank you for your attention to this important matter, and please feel free to reach out with any questions or for further assistance.
In the meantime, please visit our Housing Works website using the link below for additional information and resources related to NSPIRE Inspection standards.
https://housing-works.org/nspire-inspections/
Sincerely, HCV Team
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Security Deposit Assistance Available!
Rental security deposit assistance loans are available to Housing Choice Voucher holders and residents moving into Housing Works-owned properties managed by EPIC Property Management ONLY on a first-come, first-served basis when funding is available. These funds help individuals and families remove barriers to accessing safe affordable housing once they are selected for a rental home.
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