Fayetteville Housing Authority expands HEART program to aid homeless with rental assistance

The Fayetteville Community Development and Assistance Programs Advisory Board convened on April 23, 2025, to discuss the progress and challenges of local housing initiatives, particularly the HEART program aimed at assisting homeless individuals.

The HEART program, funded through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Continuum of Care (CoC) grants from HUD, provides essential services such as rental assistance, utility deposits, and wraparound case management for participants. The program emphasizes that simply providing housing is not enough; it also addresses the underlying issues that contribute to homelessness, including mental health, physical health, and employment challenges. Case managers work closely with participants to identify their specific needs and connect them with community resources.

A significant focus of the meeting was the Landlord Engagement Program, which aims to inform landlords about the benefits of participating in the HEART program. The program offers tenant-based rental assistance, allowing participants to find housing in the community while ensuring that their rent does not exceed 30% of their income. The program currently operates 26 units within Fayetteville city limits, and all available funding is committed.

Landlords expressed concerns about delays in payment associated with voucher programs, but the HEART program assures timely payments, which has helped build trust and relationships with local landlords. The case managers also serve as a point of contact for landlords, facilitating communication and addressing any issues that may arise between landlords and participants.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to raise awareness about the program and its services, as many community members remain unaware of the available resources. The board emphasized the importance of community presentations and outreach to ensure that those in need can access the support provided by the HEART program.

In conclusion, the Fayetteville Community Development and Assistance Programs Advisory Board continues to work towards enhancing housing stability for vulnerable populations through comprehensive support services and strong community partnerships. The program's success relies on collaboration with landlords and ongoing community engagement to address the needs of homeless individuals effectively.