The Housing Choice Voucher program (formerly known as Section 8) helps cover the cost of rent for families with low incomes, people with disabilities, and seniors. Since housing assistance is provided on behalf of the family or individual, participants are able to find their own rental home, including single-family homes, townhouses and apartments. The participant is free to choose any housing that meets the requirements of the program.
A housing subsidy is paid to the landlord directly by Housing Catalyst on behalf of the participating family. The family then pays the difference between the actual rent charged by the landlord and the amount subsidized by the program. Voucher program participants usually pay about 30% of their monthly income toward rent.
