CHS is actively building new communities based on transition and hope. Over the next ten-to-twenty years, CHS will be instrumental in allowing RIHA to continue to remove obsolete housing units from its portfolio. As this occurs, CHS will replace units with alternate housing opportunities for low- and moderate-income families. New housing will include, but not be limited to, multi-unit and single-family in-fill, mixed-income rental, for-sale, and lease/purchase options. This new housing will not in any way resemble the public housing of the past and will be designed and constructed to appeal to a broad-base market serving a diverse population.

CHS development efforts contribute to revitalization efforts by creating healthy vibrant communities. Creating a positive impact in neighborhoods that are turning around and becoming revitalized and healthier places for people to live is the very essence of neighborhood revitalization. Revitalization and development promotes safe housing environments for all residents regardless of income. Revitalization efforts share the theme of upward mobility by providing opportunities for overcoming barriers to education, and employment, for low-to moderate-income working families creating more dynamically diverse communities focused on equal opportunity and growth.

Affordable Housing
Through the development of affordable for-sale and rental housing that is indistinguishable from market-rate housing, CHS will offer more housing choices to more people. Neighborhood revitalization improves the quality of life for all residents. It creates a sense of pride and of place for the entire community. It adds new investment and allows neighborhoods to restore hope and equal opportunities. As a result, current and future residents have more choices and more control over where they live and public housing residents and Housing Choice Voucher participants have the opportunity to become economically self-sufficient, contributing members of their communities. The development of a broad spectrum of affordable housing will provide a full ladder of housing opportunities for all residents regardless of income.

In-Fill Housing
Providing families and individuals more choices and more control over where they live increases their level of self-sufficiency allowing them to effectively climb the housing ladder. In-fill housing is an important aspect of this process and is a key element in stabilizing neighborhoods that are in the process of turning around. In-fill housing provides quality housing options for families seeking to return to the neighborhoods in which they were raised. The introduction of in-fill housing into these neighborhoods creates new homes reducing the number of vacant lots and obsolete housing. It instills growth, enhances economic development, creates pride and stimulates economic self-sufficiency among current and future residents.

Mixed-Income Housing
Mixed-income properties promote safe housing environments and share the theme of upward mobility by providing opportunities for overcoming barriers to education and employment for low-to moderate-income working families. After decades of using public housing and other federally subsidized housing developments to shelter low- to moderate-income working families, the Federal Government has shifted toward deconcentration via the creation of mixed-income communities indistinguishable from market-rate housing. Mixed-income housing combines low-income and higher-income households in the same development.

Supportive Living Facilities
Illinois developed the Supportive Living Program as an alternative to nursing home care for low-income older persons under Medicaid. The aim of the program is to preserve privacy and autonomy while emphasizing health and wellness for persons who would otherwise need nursing facility care.

In response to dwindling HUD funds, CHS has developed an action plan to research and pursue the development of at least one Elderly Supportive Living Facility within the state of Illinois. Medicaid Vouchers and Waivers to cover the rent for Supportive Living Facilities are available in multiple counties throughout the state. Waivers are issued based on the timeliness of the submission of the application for them.

Special Needs Housing
Special Needs Housing defines housing that provides a supportive and responsive environment for at risk and/or special needs populations. It allows residents to identify their own needs and issues of concern within a housing structure and community-based infrastructure. It offers residents accessible, affordable housing which is essential for people with special needs to live independently in their communities.

Currently, RIHA/CHS offer housing opportunities for special need populations at Douglas Park Place and will offer additional special needs housing at Cascade Garden beginning in late 2011.

For more information about available housing please call 309.786.0485 or e-mail us at Housing@riha4rent.org.