The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has unveiled the North Carolina Strategic Housing Plan to enhance and expand affordable supportive housing for people with disabilities across the state. This initiative targets individuals with disabilities who are receiving or eligible for NCDHHS services, as well as those experiencing homelessness or living in congregate settings.
Stable housing is vital for overall well-being, and this plan focuses on creating community-based housing options and necessary supports. Since May 2021, NCDHHS has collaborated with a diverse group of stakeholders and department leaders to develop this five-year plan, aiming to simplify access to community-based care.
“Improving equitable access to housing opportunities empowers people with disabilities to choose their own path for their life,” said NCDHHS Deputy Secretary for Health Equity and Chief Health Equity Officer Debra Farrington in a press release. “We appreciate the partners across North Carolina who contributed their expertise and perspectives to creating this plan, and we look forward to continuing to work together to improve choice and inclusion in our communities.”
The Strategic Housing Plan outlines five key goals:
- Increasing Supportive Housing Access and Development: The plan aims to create 3,400 permanent supportive housing opportunities through new construction and the rehabilitation of existing properties.
- Enhancing Household Stability: Strategies include securing additional rental assistance funds, streamlining resources, and improving housing quality.
- Expanding Housing Support Services: The plan focuses on funding support services related to pre-tenancy, transition, and tenancy, while increasing provider capacity.
- Coordinating State Agency Efforts: NCDHHS will explore creating a formal structure for accountability and alignment across state agencies managing housing programs.
- Strengthening Statewide Partnerships: The plan seeks to bolster coordination at state and local levels, leverage funding, and identify system gaps to address housing needs.
In support of these efforts, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development recently awarded an $8 million grant to the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency to create 225 additional affordable housing units for people with disabilities. NCDHHS will continue to work with NC HFA and other community organizations to implement the plan and achieve its goals.
