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HRHA is launching a monthly newsletter, available in both print and digital format. Interested in subscribing? Just click HERE to add your name to our listserve. The Newsletter will go out the first week of the month and features stories, news, updates, and more from HRHA. Housing continues to be a major challenge in our city. Our newsletter is one of many new efforts to better engage the Harrisonburgburg community on these challenges, and what we and other community partners are doing in response. Stay up to date and add your voice. Thanks!

Check out the September 2019 Newsletter.

2020 Five year plan, other administrative plans, available for review and comment through October 4, 2019

The HRHA Board of Commissioner’s August 21 meeting began the start of the public comment period for HRHA’s Annual, 5-year, HCV, and Property plans and policies. HRHA’s first main goal over the next five years includes becoming a Move to Work Agency (MTW). This would grant HRHA increased autonomy in the development of policies to improve program efficiency and effectiveness, increase participant’s self-sufficiency through rent reform strategies, and increase landlord participation to improve housing access. Upon selection into the MTW program, HRHA would develop a team of stakeholders and conduct community outreach and public comment processes related to the MTW goals. The second main goal involves increasing housing opportunities through unit development, private/public partnerships, expanded Fair Housing training, continued dialogue around social justice and neighborhood revitalization, increased communications efforts, and continued leadership in addressing regional homelessness.

Each plan can be reviewed in the Document Center, or by visiting the HRHA office.

Comments can be made by:
Mail:  to 286 Kelley St Harrisonburg VA, 22802 attn Mr. Michael Wong
Email: to wongway@harrisonburgrha.com
Website: through the comment box to the right, sent directly to Mr. Michael Wong
In-Person: during the public comment period at our 4:00 pm September 18 Board Meeting (286 Kelley St)

Garden Pride & Local Veggies

HRHA resident Anita was diligently weeding her garden beds this week. The beautiful blooms signaling the height of summer (and the height of weed season). Anita, who has been in HRHA housing for two years, has cultivated the many flower varieties from seed. “I have people stop and look from the road! I also have helped other residents who are interested in growing as well, like flowers or tomatoes.” The beauty of the property is difficult to miss!

garden in front of a house
garden in front of a house
woman in garden
woman in garden

Over at Commerce Village, residents have also been working to grow not only flowers, but garden veggies as well. Garden beds not only provide a space for reflection, joy, and good work, but can help support an individual or family’s food budget.

During the summer, the Harrisonburg Farmers Market provides an abundant variety of fruits and vegetables. For individuals or families who qualify for SNAP (The federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), the local farmer’s market (with support from community partners and the Virginia Fresh Match program) provides a matching program. SNAP participants are able to receive up to $20 of additional support to purchase local fruits and vegetables. You can learn more about and contribute to this program at the Harrisonburg Farmers Market Website.

HRHA Welcomes Two New Employees

Vine Adowei and Everett Brubaker joined HRHA this summer. Each hold an M.A. in Communication & Advocacy from JMU and are excited to further the important work of HRHA.

vine adoweiVine is the new Western Virginia Continuum of Care Coordinator. She was born in Port Harcourt, Nigeria and came to Harrisonburg in 2013 to study at JMU. She became a U.S. citizen in 2018 and is looking forward to working to address homelessness and improve affordable housing in the region.

 

 

 

everett brubakerEverett is the new Resident Services and Communications Coordinator. He was born in Arizona, but has spent most of his growing up years in Harrisonburg. He lives in town with his wife and 6 month old son. Everett is excited to work at improving communication between HRHA and the community, while driving events and expanding opportunities for residents.