Local Section 8 Rental Assistance Programs
Although the inventory of low-income rental units is supplemented by Section 8 rental assistance programs, it should be noted that, even for homeless families or individuals, there is a waiting period of at least four months - often longer - for this assistance. Section 8 is a federal and state program designed to assist with rent. If a family or individual is income-eligible to take part in the program, some of their rent is paid directly to their landlord every month. The part of the rent that the family/individuals pays is based on their adjusted gross monthly income and the number of people in the household; however, the total amount the family pays for rent and utilities generally will not exceed 30% - 40% of their income.
There are currently two Section 8 rental assistance programs in the five-county area: One program is administered by SEE-CON (MSHDA) and is headquartered in Bellaire, MI. This program serves Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Leelanau, and Presque Isle counties.
A second Section 8 rental assistance program is administered by the Traverse City Housing Commission and serves Antrim, Benzie, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Grand Traverse and Wexford Counties. Applications for both programs may be obtained from the Goodwill Inn, 231-922-4890, or directly from the agencies themselves: SEE-CON - 231-377-7155. Traverse City Housing Commission 231-922-4915. If you need assistance in applying for Section 8, please contact the Housing Case Manager at the Goodwill Inn, 231-922-4890.
* These services are provided to Inn residents through an agreement with Goodwill Industries of Northern Michigan, Inc.
