Olathe Housing Authority opens waiting list for rental assistance

The Olathe Housing Authority has announced that its long closed waiting list is reopening May 1, 2014. This is a great opportunity for tenants living in Olathe, Kansas who have long struggled to afford rent to finally get a chance at a reduced rent apartment!

There are a couple of reasons for the announcement. First, there have been some vacancies that have allowed many on the wait list to be granted subsidized rent in one of the city’s reduced rent apartments. Second, many of the previous applicants on the waiting list no longer need rental assistance in Olathe. While some gained higher paying jobs that allow them to afford their own apartment, many simply moved out of the area and no longer meet the qualifications.

Reduced rent apartments are typically organized in a single housing project, with tenants of similar demographics (family size, age) being grouped in the same project. The Olathe Housing Authority manages Parkview Manor, which offers free utilities and rent based on income. You may qualify for a flat rental rate, or it can be pegged at 30% of your adjusted gross monthly income. There are also at least 64 other individual housing units that are scattered throughout the city of Olathe that are available for subsidized rent.

Alternatively, you do not have to live in a housing project. You may potentially participate in the Section 8 program, allowing you the choice to live in a private apartment or rental home. Subsidized rent vouchers are issued on behalf of over 500 families each month who need help with rent payments.

These programs serve a much needed purpose for lower income households who consistently struggle to pay rent on a permanent basis. Many families mistakenly take out rental loans that are intended for temporary hardships when they are actually struggling on a chronic basis. Loans will not help them if this is the case, since they will only dig themselves in an even deeper financial hole.

If you currently live in Olathe and believe that you may meet the criteria for long-term rental assistance subsidies, you are encouraged to contact the Olathe Housing Authority at 913-971-6260.