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Commonly Asked Questions
Eligibility & Applications
Community Housing Associates serves individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness, with a particular focus on those living with mental illness. Eligibility is determined through Baltimore City's Coordinated Entry system, which prioritizes housing based on vulnerability and length of time homeless. Applicants must meet HUD's definition of homelessness and income requirements (typically at or below 30% of Area Median Income).
All applications must go through Baltimore City's Coordinated Entry system. Contact one of the Coordinated Access Navigator Sites to complete your application packet here. You can also call the Mayor's Office of Homeless Services at (443) 984-9540 for guidance. Community Housing Associates does not accept direct applications.
Wait times vary based on unit availability and your priority level in Coordinated Entry. Individuals with higher vulnerability scores and longer periods of homelessness are prioritized. We encourage staying in regular contact with your Coordinated Entry navigator to keep your information current. Contact one of the Coordinated Access Navigator Sites to complete your application packet here.
Required documents typically include: photo ID, Social Security card, proof of income (or statement of no income), medical documentation if applicable, and verification of homeless status. Your Coordinated Entry navigator will help you gather necessary paperwork. Contact one of the Coordinated Access Navigator Sites to complete your application packet here.
Housing & Services
Community Housing Associates provides Permanent Supportive Housing, providing both scattered-site apartments throughout Baltimore and dedicated supportive housing buildings. All units are safe, decent, and affordable with rent not to exceed to 30% of your income.
Services include case management, mental health support coordination, life skills development, community integration assistance, crisis intervention, and connections to healthcare, employment, and other community resources. Services are voluntary and tailored to individual needs.
Yes, tenants can have visitors following standard lease guidelines. Overnight guests may stay for limited periods as outlined in your lease agreement. Extended stays require approval from property management to ensure compliance with occupancy standards.
Pet policies vary by property. Some Community Housing Associates properties are pet-friendly with appropriate documentation and deposits. Service animals and emotional support animals are accommodated in accordance with fair housing laws. Contact your property manager for specific pet policies.
Rent & Financial
Rent may not exceed 30% of your adjusted gross income. If you have no income, you may qualify for a minimum rent of $0-25. Rent calculations are reviewed annually and adjusted based on income changes. Eligibility is determined through Baltimore City's Coordinated Entry system, which prioritizes housing based on vulnerability and length of time homeless. Applicants must meet HUD's definition of homelessness and income requirements (typically at or below 30% of Area Median Income).
Utility inclusions vary by property. Some properties include heat, water, and electricity, while others may require tenants to pay certain utilities. Your lease will specify the subsidy. HUD calculations determine your portion of utility responsibility.
Contact your case manager or property manager immediately if you're having financial difficulties. Community Housing Associates works with tenants to develop payment plans and connect you with emergency assistance programs when available. Communication is key to preventing eviction.
Rent is recalculated annually based on your current income. If your income increases or decreases significantly, notify your property manager for a rent adjustment. Rent changes follow HUD guidelines and require proper notice.
Living in Community Housing Associates Properties
All tenants must follow their lease agreement, which includes maintaining a clean and safe living environment, treating neighbors respectfully, no illegal activities, and no violence or threats. Detailed community guidelines are provided at move-in.
Contact your property manager immediately for maintenance requests. Emergency repairs (no heat, water leaks, safety issues) should be reported 24/7. Non-emergency requests are typically addressed within 3–5 business days.
Yes, within lease guidelines. You may paint walls with approved colors, hang pictures using appropriate hardware, and personalize your space. Any modifications requiring drilling or permanent changes need property manager approval.
Provide proper notice as required by your lease (typically 30 days). Your case manager can help you plan your transition and connect you with resources if needed. Community Housing Associates supports tenants in moving toward increased independence when appropriate.
Support Services
No, all supportive services are voluntary. However, you must maintain your lease obligations and allow periodic check-ins with your case manager to ensure housing stability and address any concerns.
Community Housing Associates case managers can connect you with mental health providers, help coordinate care, and provide support during crises. We work closely with local mental health agencies and can assist with appointment scheduling and transportation when possible.
Yes, case managers can connect you with job training programs, employment services, and educational opportunities. We partner with local workforce development agencies and can provide job search support and interview preparation assistance.
Community Housing Associates supports tenants in recovery and can connect you with treatment programs, support groups, and other recovery resources. Having a substance use disorder does not disqualify you from housing, and we follow a harm reduction approach.
The Continuum of Care (CoC) program is designed to promote communitywide commitment to the goal of ending homelessness by providing funding for efforts by nonprofit providers and Baltimore County and State governments. These efforts create and promote access to, and effect utilization of, mainstream programs by homeless individuals and families.
Baltimore County Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is the lead agency for the County’s CoC program. DHCD supports the work of the CoC Governance Board, manages the County’s Homeless Management Information System and facilitates quarterly meetings of the CoC membership.
If you are in need of housing assistance or a referral to shelter, please call Coordinated Entry at 410-887-8463, from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.
- Coordinated Entry flyer English
- Coordinated Entry flyer Spanish
General Information
Community Housing Associates provides permanent housing, meaning there is no predetermined time limit. Our goal is to help you maintain stable, long-term housing for as long as you need and choose to stay.
Contact your case manager or property manager first. If unresolved, you can request to speak with a supervisor or use Community Housing Associates formal grievance process. We are committed to addressing all concerns promptly and fairly.
Yes, Community Housing Associates serves both individuals and families. Family units are available based on household size and availability. Children's needs are considered in service planning and case management.
Community Housing Associates encourages tenant participation through resident councils, community meetings, volunteer opportunities, and feedback sessions. Your input helps us improve our services and community environment.
Still have questions? Contact Community Housing Associates at (410) 545-4429 or speak with
your case manager. We're here to help ensure your success in housing.