Four agencies form coalition to address affordable housing in region

Four agencies will work together over the next three years to increase the availability of affordable housing options for low- to moderate-income families in Staunton and Augusta County.

The Staunton Redevelopment and Housing Authority, Staunton Housing Corporation, Staunton-Augusta-Waynesboro Habitat for Humanity and Renewing Homes of Greater Augusta announced the formal partnership on Monday.

The alliance brings together experts in public housing, affordable housing development, home ownership programs and home repairs services.

“By working together, we can maximize our collective impact and serve more families more efficiently,” said Nehemias Velez, SRHA executive director. “This partnership represents a unified commitment to ensuring that every resident has access to safe, affordable housing.”

 The partnership will focus on five key goals:

• Increasing the availability of affordable, quality housing
• Coordinating housing rehabilitation, repair, new construction and redevelopment efforts
• Leveraging financial, volunteer and in-kind resources
• Promoting housing stability and neighborhood revitalization
• Ensuring equitable access to programs and services

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The organizations plan to meet quarterly to coordinate efforts:

• SRHA will identify eligible residents and coordinate with federal agencies
• SHC will serve as the nonprofit development partner, acquiring and rehabilitating properties
• SAW Habitat will provide homeownership opportunities through construction and volunteer engagement
• RHGA will focus on critical home repairs to preserve existing housing stock

“This collaboration allows us to meet families where they are,” said Brad Bryant, SAW Habitat for Humanity executive director. “Whether someone needs repairs to stay in their home, help becoming a first-time homeowner, or access to affordable rental housing, this partnership ensures we can connect them with the right resources.”