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AGENCY TESTIMONY
Recent improvements to the Housing Connect system
0:11:30
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128 sec
Ahmed Tigani outlines recent improvements made to the Housing Connect system, focusing on removing barriers and making the process more accessible and efficient for applicants.
- Elimination of credit checks for voucher holders.
- Updates to the marketing handbook, reducing paperwork and easing documentation requirements.
- Implementation of smarter marketing strategies, including email blasts for new opportunities and direct communication with applicants.
- Introduction of housing connect trainings and informative videos on the website.
Ahmed Tigani
0:11:30
That's why our work at HPD, especially within the office of housing access and stability, is focused on one clear goal, cutting through the red tape and getting people housed.
0:11:41
We're not managing, we're not just managing this housing connect system, we're breaking it down, we're taking in and assessing feedback, and we are rebuilding it to be faster, more responsive, and easier to navigate.
0:11:54
This past fiscal year, we didn't just talk about removing barriers, we did it.
0:11:59
We eliminated credit checks for voucher householders for voucher holders because families with rental assistance should not be blocked by barriers that were never even necessary.
0:12:10
We updated the marketing head book, reducing paperwork, removing notarization requirements, easing documentation for federal benefit recipients, and making the process more accessible for people with disabilities.
0:12:22
We're even making marketing smarter.
0:12:27
In addition to requiring most new lotteries to advertise in newspapers and conduct outreach to local community based organizations and elected officials, HPD and HDC, HDC is the Housing Development Corporation and our sister agency in the housing work.
0:12:44
We send email blasts to hundreds of thousands of active Housing Connect users whenever a new opportunity becomes available.
0:12:53
We also email applicants directly when there's an update to their profile.
0:12:57
Whether it's a reminder to submit documents, a status on an appeal, or a final determination, so they never miss a step in the process.
0:13:05
Our website also offers housing connect trainings with short informative videos on how to apply lotteries, set up an account, income eligibility, and more along with a FAQ, frequently asked questions document, answering New Yorkers most often sought after issues and questions.
0:13:24
We're already seeing results from those changes.
0:13:38
Issues
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second chances, new beginnings, and families finally able to exhale.
UNKNOWN
0:13:27
In 2024, HPD helped more more New Yorkers move into affordable housing than ever before.
0:13:34
14,654 households.
0:13:36
That's over 14,000