While the Local Waltham and Federal HUD programs are distinct, both are processed through the Waltham Housing Authorities Office. Therefore, if the applicant is over the age of 60, they are eligible to submit a federal application. Importantly, given the information required, a case manager is required to assist applicants in this process.
Applications should be filled out on paper and mailed to the Waltham Housing Authority at 110 Pond Street, Waltham, MA 02452. Please see the link below to download the required documentation.
Information needed in the application process (in addition to other mandatory fields as described in detail on the forms):
Letter of Homelessness - This is a common document written often by homeless service workers detailing the client's living situation, how long they have been homeless, and the town that they have a residence in for “local preference, which will only be granted if the applicant currently works or previously resided in the city jurisdiction.
Helpful Tip: The wait is drastically different (less time!) for those who have Waltham local preference.
Proof of Homelessness, Identification Documentation, Income Documentation, and more (The Case Manager can provide specifics during a meeting)
Advice on How to Approach & Frame Fitting Stories for the Client:
For homeless history, ask the client, “When was the last time you were legally signed onto an apartment lease agreement?”. This should help you to identify their “homeless start date.”
If they are couch hopping, staying in a hotel, or with friends, this does not count as a permanent placement.
Ask the client how long they have been homeless, when they last had a stable living situation, and also where they have been sleeping recently.