UPDATE: The Berkeley Section 8 waiting list is no longer open.
Hey all!
I just wanted to pass along the awesome news that Berkeley’s SECTION 8 VOUCHER PROGRAM WAITING LIST is finally open. This is a REALLY BIG DEAL because it only opens every 4-6 years (last time was in 2006). It’s only open from 6am MARCH 1st til 6pm MARCH 5th.
PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE tell your clients about this opening because we really need to get the word out quickly. If you don’t know anything about Section 8 here is a really short blip:
Section 8 is a government subsidized housing program. When the waitlist opens, people who apply are put into a lottery system. For the next 4-6 years they go through this waitlist offering vouchers to those that they can find. (A lot of people never get off the waitlist and even if their name is finally reached–it is often impossible to find them) Once they have this voucher they can use it at any housing place that accepts Section 8. Click here for more information.
Clients must apply online. The website is not currently up, but will eventually be findable through this site. You can also find this through the Berkeley Housing Authority website.
I’ve also heard that if people (especially with disabilities) need assistance with filling out the application they can go to the Center for Independent Living at 2539 Telegraph (near Dwight). Their phone number is 510-841-4776.
Please please please pass this information along to all volunteers and clients (possible announcement before clinic starts). Because the waitlist will be open next week during clinic hours, it might be a good idea to have extra volunteers/computers available in case people want help applying.
Thanks everyone,
Alex (C.A.R.E. Coordinator)