CHA Waitlist Lottery officially closes as more than 282,000 households register for affordable housing

CHA Waitlist Lottery officially closes as more than 282,000 households register for affordable housing

Largest waitlist registration in the history of CHA

CHICAGO (Nov. 25, 2014) – More than 282,000 registered for the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) Waitlist Lottery for low-income households−the largest number ever to apply. Those registered represent approximately 50% of low-income eligible households in Chicago. 

For the first time, low-income families and individuals had the opportunity to apply online for all three affordable housing waitlists—Family Public Housing, Housing Choice Voucher (formerly Section 8), and the Property Rental Assistance program—on one registration form. The registration period was held over a four-week period from Oct. 27 – Nov. 24, 2014.

CHA also successfully targeted the homeless population. Approximately 15,900 registrants reported being homeless, living in a shelter or transitional housing. By comparison, in January 2014, the homeless count in Chicago was estimated at nearly 6,300 individuals.  

“With the support of Mayor Rahm Emanuel, city officials, sister agencies, and our partnering community organizations, CHA continues to work to meet the great housing needs within the City of Chicago to build strong, vibrant neighborhoods,” said CHA CEO Michael R. Merchant.

The computer-based lottery will take place in early 2015 and those selected for each waitlist will be notified as housing opportunities become available.

All registrations received during the four-week waitlist opening period have an equal chance of being selected for the electronic lottery.    

 ####