CHA primarily conducts business with applicants, participants and owners/managers via online portals, email and phone. Digital requests are more easily tracked, which limits repeat requests and processing delays.
CHA’s LevelUp Program, (formerly known as the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program), helps participants achieve financial stability while working towards their educational, professional, and personal goals. The program is designed to assist participants on a personalized path toward economic independence and overall well-being.
The Down Payment Assistance Program (DPA) helps families with upfront costs of buying a home. CHA residents are eligible for a $20,000 grant. However, CHA residents who receive a grant will be transitioned off of their subsidy. If you are not a CHA resident, but are an Illinois resident or moving to Chicago, you are eligible for a $10,000 grant. (Download a summary flier.)
CHA residents can earn a certificate or a degree from City Colleges of Chicago for free or low cost. This is possible through a partnership with CCC called Partners in Education (PiE).
Businesses that get money from HUD (like for building projects or other federal help) must offer job training, jobs, and contracts to people with low or very low incomes. Section 3 jobs are available to everyone, including both people who live in CHA housing and those who don't.
You can find available Section 3 jobs on the CHA WORC portal. CHA's WORC team can help connect you to Section 3 jobs with CHA contractors and partners. Businesses that want to hire
Mobility Areas are neighborhoods with low poverty (less than 20%) and low crime rates. Families may choose to move to these areas for better schools, safer streets, and more job opportunities.
The Mobility Counseling Program (MCP) helps families find housing Mobility Areas. A counselor will help you plan your move, find and apply for housing, and build a support network in your new community. Participants can also attend workshops to learn about budgeting, understanding leases, and moving tips.
CHA’s Choose to Own Homeownership Program (CTO) allows qualifying Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) and Public Housing families to use their housing subsidy to purchase a home.
CHA's Scattered Sites properties consist of nearly 2,900 public housing units located individually or in small groups throughout most of Chicago's 77 community areas. Scattered Site units offer a variety of housing options including single family detached homes and multi-unit buildings.
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