Reno launches new pilot program to bridge the gap to long-term housing

RENO, Nev. (News 4 & Fox 11) — Reno now has one more tool to help people get access to affordable housing.

The Reno city council recently unanimously approved a pilot program that will help people trying to get off the streets and out of homeless shelters.

"This was this was a step in the process working with the Volunteers of America, the Reno Housing Authority and we had some private funds come in to really just hit the solution. There's no red tape, there's no bureaucracy," said Reno city councilwoman Kathleen Taylor.

It's hard to find low-income housing in Washoe County. There's just not enough supply. Many people rely on long-term housing vouchers, from places like the Reno Housing Authority, to help subsidize the cost. But the waiting list for those vouchers is 12 to 18 months. 3,000 to 4,000 people are waiting.

So the newly approved pilot program will work as a temporary solution until people can get into long-term housing. The city will partner with Volunteers of America and RHA to provide placement and rental assistance at the Village on Sage Street until their long-term housing opportunities with vouchers come through.

"The city initially came up with $200,000 and then we received a private donation for $20,000, to help with this. So we're looking at about $220,000 initially. I'm hoping we can find more money to keep this project going," said Taylor.

The grant will subsidize rent for about 25 residents for roughly two years, unless more donations come in.

Residents are identified for this program by outreach workers.

Residents in the pilot program will stay at the Village on Sage Street. Rent costs $555 for a one bedroom, dorm-like style room and shared amenities.

"Individuals traditionally need $1,200 minimum in monthly income up to $3,565 a month," said Devin McFarland, the VOA community administrator. "We have students who are 18 and going to TMCC or UNR, and all the way up to individuals who are in their 80s who just need affordable housing."

The residents will only pay 30% of their income on housing. The pilot program covers the rest, up to two years. The idea is that this will allow people to have a roof over their head as they wait for the long-term housing opportunities to become available.

The residents will also work with a case coordinator to make sure they stay on the long-term housing list and need other services.

Village on Sage Street is adding additional housing on their location which will help house more people in general and for the new pilot program.

Click here for more information or help with Reno housing.