BUCKS COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA

Transcription

1 BUCKS COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA BUCKS COUNTY CONSORTIUM CONSOLIDATED PLAN and 2015 ACTION PLAN Department of Housing and Community Development 1260 Almshouse Rd., Doylestown, PA Phone: Fax:

2 The Process PR 05 Lead & Responsible Agencies (b) 1. Describe agency/entity responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source The following are the agencies/entities responsible for preparing the Consolidated Plan and those responsible for administration of each grant program and funding source. Agency Role Name Department/Agency Lead Agency BUCKS COUNTY CDBG Administrator HOPWA Administrator HOME Administrator ESG Administrator HOPWA C Administrator Narrative Table 1 Responsible Agencies Department of Housing & Community Development Department of Housing & Community Development Department of Housing & Community Development Consolidated Plan Public Contact Information Bucks County Department of Housing and Community Development 1260 Almshouse Road Doylestown, PA Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 1

3 PR 10 Consultation , (b), (l) 1. Introduction The Bucks County Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) consulted with various public and private agencies throughout the development of the Consolidated Plan in order to determine community needs, develop goals and objectives to address priority needs, and to enhance coordination between private and public agencies. Provide a concise summary of the jurisdiction s activities to enhance coordination between public and assisted housing providers and private and governmental health, mental health and service agencies (91.215(I)). The DHCD works closely with public and assisted housing providers, health and mental health organizations, and social service agencies throughout the jurisdiction. The director of the DHCD serves on the Housing Advisory Board, a 22 member task force appointed by the County Commissioners in 2014 to recommend "system changes" to the county's role in housing and housing services that are supportive of the overall quality of the community in Bucks County. DHCD is also the lead agency for the Housing Continuum of Care of Bucks County (CoC), the organization responsible for the planning and implementation of housing and homeless programs in Bucks County. The CoC membership includes representation by housing providers, mental health and drug and alcohol treatment providers, emergency shelters and outreach organizations, faith based organizations, youth services, and other interested organizations. The DHCD also collaborates with the CoC Executive Committee to implement and evaluate Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) funded programs. The DHCD is an active partner in the creation and implementation of the Bucks County Housing Link, the central point of information, assessment, and referral services for all Bucks County residents experiencing a housing crisis. Describe coordination with the Continuum of Care and efforts to address the needs of homeless persons (particularly chronically homeless individuals and families, families with children, veterans, and unaccompanied youth) and persons at risk of homelessness The DHCD acts as the Lead Agency for the CoC and actively coordinates with the CoC to address the needs of homeless persons throughout the jurisdiction. As the Lead Agency, the DHCD submits the annual CoC Program application for funding on behalf of the CoC funded agencies and regularly evaluates program performance. The DHCD participates on the Executive Committee of the CoC and employs the HMIS Coordinator. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 2

4 In an effort to more efficiently address the needs of homeless persons, the Bucks County Housing Link was launched in This collaborative project, carried out by four prominent housing providers and the DHCD, is the central point of information, assessment, and referral services for all Bucks County residents experiencing a housing crisis. It includes a call center and several assessment centers which serve all persons experiencing a housing crisis in Bucks County. The Housing Link screens callers with a brief interview to determine the household s basic eligibility for housing assistance and refers them to the nearest regional coordinated assessment center. The coordinated assessment centers schedule an in person appointment in order to determine the level of housing assistance needed to resolve the crisis and to identify available assistance options. Persons in crisis are then connected with the most appropriate housing assistance program to resolve the housing crisis. These efforts are coordinated with Rapid Re Housing and hotel/motel vouchers provided by the United Way to reduce the number of persons living in literally homeless situations. Data from the Housing Link is used by the CoC to identify and serve the highest need populations. The CoC regularly evaluates performance measures and outcomes for programs funded through the CoC and ESG programs. This evaluation assists the DHCD to determine the needs of homeless persons, identify system and service gaps, and allocate limited resources. Describe consultation with the Continuum(s) of Care that serves the jurisdiction's area in determining how to allocate ESG funds, develop performance standards and evaluate outcomes, and develop funding, policies and procedures for the administration of HMIS The DHCD actively coordinates with the CoC in the implementation of the ESG program. The DHCD administers and monitors all ESG funded projects including those funded through the ESG entitlement program and those that are awarded through Pennsylvania s competitive ESG program. ESG funding is used to provide emergency shelter operations, rapid re housing, and homeless prevention services. The application, review and ranking process for ESG funding is facilitated by the DHCD. ESG funding announcements are coordinated through the CoC and include a discussion of eligible activities, available funding, and a timeline for application and implementation. The CoC Executive Committee provides input into the selection of ESG projects for approval and the CoC Outcomes Subcommittee assists with evaluating ESG outcomes based on the performance standards developed for the program. The DHCD is also the administrator of the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) system and works closely with the CoC s HMIS Subcommittee to maintain the policies and procedures for administration of the HMIS. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 3

5 2. Describe Agencies, groups, organizations and others who participated in the process and describe the jurisdictions consultations with housing, social service agencies and other entities Table 2 Agencies, groups, organizations who participated 1 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Housing Authority Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing PHA Housing Need Assessment Public Housing Needs Market Analysis Agency participates on the Bucks County Housing Advisory Board to identify housing needs and make recommendations for coordinated services for low income residents. In person consultation was also conducted to gather information on resident housing needs and Public Housing stock. 2 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Military Affairs Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Other government County Veterans Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Needs Veterans Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board to determine needs and identify housing and services for veterans throughout the jurisdiction. 3 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Department of Adult Probation and Parole Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Services Housing Services Persons with Disabilities Services Health Other government County Community Corrections Housing Need Assessment Re entry/offender Populations Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 4

6 How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine needs and identify housing and services for the corrections population throughout the jurisdiction. 4 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Department of Human Services Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Services Children Services Elderly Persons Services Persons with Disabilities Services homeless Health Agency Child Welfare Agency Publicly Funded Institution/System of Care Other government County Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Families with children Homelessness Needs Unaccompanied youth Non Homeless Special Needs Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board to determine needs and identify housing and services for special needs populations throughout the jurisdiction. In person consultation was also conducted to gather information on specific needs and services provided through County and Statefunded housing programs. 5 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Department of Corrections Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Publicly Funded Institution/System of Care Other government County Housing Need Assessment Re Entry/Offender Population Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board to determine needs and identify housing and services for those being released from the Bucks County Correctional Facility. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 5

7 6 Agency/Group/Organization FAMILY SERVICE ASSOCIATION OF BUCKS COUNTY Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 6 Housing Services Housing Services Persons with Disabilities Services Persons with HIV/AIDS Services homeless Services Health 7 Agency/Group/Organization A Womans Place Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Chronically homeless Homeless Needs Families with children Homelessness Needs Veterans Homelessness Needs Unaccompanied youth Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. In person consultation was also conducted to determine HIV/AIDS housing needs. Housing Services Housing Services Victims of Domestic Violence Housing Need Assessment Homeless Needs Families with children Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board to determine needs and identify housing and services for domestic violence victims throughout the jurisdiction. In person consultation was also conducted to gather domestic violence information and data utilized in the development of the consolidated plan. 8 Agency/Group/Organization Keystone Opportunity Center Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Services Housing Services homeless Housing Need Assessment Homeless Needs Families with children

8 How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. 9 Agency/Group/Organization Building Inspection Service Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Business Leaders Housing Need Assessment Business C.E.O. participates on the Housing Advisory Board to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. 10 Agency/Group/Organization ST. MARY'S MEDICAL CENTER Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Services Housing Services Children Services Elderly Persons Services Persons with Disabilities Services Persons with HIV/AIDS Services Victims of Domestic Violence Services homeless Services Health Health Agency Publicly Funded Institution/System of Care Business and Civic Leaders Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Chronically homeless Homeless Needs Families with children Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 7

9 11 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Housing Group Inc Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Services Housing Services Children Services homeless Service Fair Housing Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Chronically homeless Homeless Needs Families with children Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. 12 Agency/Group/Organization BUCKS COUNTY OPPORTUNITY COUNCIL Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Services Housing Services homeless Services Education Services Employment Community Action Agency Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Chronically homeless Homeless Needs Families with children Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. 13 Agency/Group/Organization WARMINSTER TOWNSHIP Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Other government Local Housing Need Assessment Market Analysis Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 8

10 How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. 14 Agency/Group/Organization Valley Youth House Committee, Inc Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Services Housing Services Children Services Persons with Disabilities Services homeless Services Education Services Employment 15 Agency/Group/Organization PENN FOUNDATION Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Families with children Homelessness Needs Unaccompanied youth Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. Housing Services Persons with Disabilities Services homeless Services Health Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Chronically homeless Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless, low income, and special needs households throughout the jurisdiction. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 9

11 16 Agency/Group/Organization Advocates For The Homeless and Those In Need Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Services Housing Services homeless Housing Need Assessment Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Chronically homeless Homelessness Needs Veterans Agency participates on the Housing Advisory Board and the CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. 17 Agency/Group/Organization Schlupp's Maintenance Co. Inc Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Business and Civic Leaders Housing Need Assessment Small business owner participates on the Housing Advisory Board to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. 18 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Commissioners Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Other government County Housing Need Assessment Non Homeless Special Needs Economic Development Market Analysis In person consultation was conducted with each commissioner in order to assess housing and nonhousing community development needs and identify goals and strategies for implementation. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 10

12 19 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Department of Health Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Services Children Services Persons with HIV/AIDS Services Health Health Agency Housing Need Assessment Non Homeless Special Needs In person consultation was conducted to determine the characteristics and housing needs of persons living with HIV/AIDS in the jurisdiction. 20 Agency/Group/Organization NETWORK OF VICTIM ASSISTANCE Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Services Victims Housing Need Assessment Homeless Needs Families with children Non Homeless Special Needs In person consultation was conducted to determine the characteristics and housing needs of victims of sexual assault, dating violence and stalking throughout the jurisdiction. 21 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Department of Children and Youth Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? Housing Services Housing Services Children Services homeless Services Education Services Employment Child Welfare Agency Publicly Funded Institution/System of Care Other government County Housing Need Assessment Lead based Paint Strategy Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Families with children Homelessness Needs Unaccompanied youth Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 11

13 How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Agency participates on CoC to determine housing needs and identify resources for homeless and low income households throughout the jurisdiction. 22 Agency/Group/Organization Bucks County Planning Commission Agency/Group/Organization Type What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Other government County Planning organization Housing Need Assessment Economic Development Market Analysis In person consultation was conducted to determine housing and non housing needs throughout the jurisdiction. 23 Agency/Group/Organization Housing Continuum of Care of Bucks County Agency/Group/Organization Type Housing Services Housing Services Children Services Elderly Persons Services Persons with Disabilities Services Persons with HIV/AIDS Services Victims of Domestic Violence Services homeless Services Health Services Education Services Employment Service Fair Housing Services Victims Planning organization Business and Civic Leaders Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 12

14 What section of the Plan was addressed by Consultation? How was the Agency/Group/Organization consulted and what are the anticipated outcomes of the consultation or areas for improved coordination? Housing Need Assessment Public Housing Needs Homelessness Strategy Homeless Needs Chronically homeless Homeless Needs Families with children Homelessness Needs Veterans Homelessness Needs Unaccompanied youth Anti poverty Strategy Consultation was conducted with the HCoCBC and the Housing Advisory Board to determine homeless needs throughout the jurisdiction. Identify any Agency Types not consulted and provide rationale for not consulting All required agency types were consulted during the Consolidated Planning Process. Other local/regional/state/federal planning efforts considered when preparing the Plan Name of Plan Lead Organization How do the goals of your Strategic Plan overlap with the goals of each plan? Continuum of Care Bucks County Department of Housing and Community Development Bucks County Comprehensive Plan 2011 Bucks County Planning Commission Bucks County Human Services Bucks County Office of Human Services Block Grant Table 3 Other local / regional / federal planning efforts Describe cooperation and coordination with other public entities, including the State and any adjacent units of general local government, in the implementation of the Consolidated Plan (91.215(l)) Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 13

15 PR 15 Citizen Participation , , (c) 1. Summary of citizen participation process/efforts made to broaden citizen participation Summarize citizen participation process and how it impacted goal setting Bucks County followed its established Citizen Participation Plan by encouraging a broad range of citizen participation in the development of the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action Plan. The Bucks County Housing Advisory Board (HAB) conducted Listening Sessions on February 26 and March 9, 2015 that were attended by 109 community members and HAB Board representatives. These Listening Sessions provided an opportunity to solicit input on housing and community development needs from a wide range of organizations including housing and service providers, local government leaders, and other community organizations. Two listening sessions geared toward consumers were also conducted by two housing providers in an effort to gain input and insight into the needs of low income residents. The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) published a Public Notice in a newspaper of local circulation to notify county residents of the development of the Consolidated Plan and the Annual Action Plan and to solicit input on community needs and potential uses of CDBG, HOME and ESG funds. The Notice provided information on the amount of assistance expected to be available, the range of activities that may be undertaken, and the estimated funding amount to benefit low and moderate income residents. The DCHD telephone number and address were also provided to allow citizens to obtain more information or make comments throughout the development of the Plan. A Public Meeting was held on May 4, 2015 in order to afford citizens an opportunity to point out housing and community development needs, propose uses for funds and obtain more information about these programs. No comments were received; a copy of the minutes is attached. In preparation for development of the Annual Action Plan, the DHCD solicited funding proposals from eligible municipal and non profit organizations throughout the jurisdiction, including those serving minority groups, persons with limited English skills, and persons with disabilities. Detailed instructions were provided including a description of the full application process, program priority areas, and the criteria to be used in application scoring. The DHCD provided technical assistance to interested applicants as necessary to facilitate the application process. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 14

16 Citizen Participation Outreach Sort Ord er Mode of Outrea ch Target of Outrea ch 1 Public Meeting Nontargeted/broad community Summary of response/attenda nce A public meeting was held to collect input on the development and review of the Consolidated Plan prior to approval by the Bucks County Commissioners. Summary of comments receiv ed No comments were received. Summary of comme nts not accepted and reasons Not Applicable URL (If applicable) Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 15

17 Sort Ord er Mode of Outrea ch 2 Internet Outreach Target of Outrea ch Minorities Persons with disabilities Nontargeted/broad community Residents of Public and Assisted Housing Summary of response/attenda nce Information on available funding, applications and detailed instructions were ed to jurisdiction municipalities and non profit organizations. Summary of comments receiv ed Summary of comme nts not accepted and reasons URL (If applicable) low income residents Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 16

18 Sort Ord er Mode of Outrea ch 3 Community Listening Sessions Target of Outrea ch Persons with disabilities Nontargeted/broad community Residents of Public and Assisted Housing Summary of response/attenda nce Two listening sessions were held with 109 attendees representing local government, housing and service providers, mental health and children and youth agencies, corrections and private business. Summary of comments receiv ed System coordination is needed to maximize available resources; transportation is an issue for many families, especially in the lower part of the county; there is not enough housing that is affordable to low and very low income residents; rapid re housing has been a successful initiative and should be expanded. Summary of comme nts not accepted and reasons All comments were accepted. URL (If applicable) om Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 17

19 Sort Ord er Mode of Outrea ch 4 Community Listening Sessions Target of Outrea ch Residents of Public and Assisted Housing Summary of response/attenda nce Four listening sessions were held by two prominent county housing providers and attended by 23 housing participants. Summary of comments receiv ed Wages are not high enough for many to afford housing; more supports are needed to maintain housing; Accessing resources is confusing; transportation is an issue for many; more Section 8 and subsidized housing is needed. Table 4 Citizen Participation Outreach Summary of comme nts not accepted and reasons All comments were accepted. URL (If applicable) om Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 18

20 Needs Assessment NA 05 Overview Needs Assessment Overview The Needs Assessment findings are based on an analysis of Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) data and corresponding tables, the 2010 Census, American Community Survey (ACS) 5 Year Estimates and the Bucks County s 2011 Comprehensive Plan. Bucks County has a population of 625,249 and is comprised of 234,849 households (2010 Census). Income levels in the suburban Philadelphia region are among the highest in the state with the median 2010 household income in Bucks County at $70,999. Bucks County s AMI was somewhat less than two of its three suburban counterparts (Chester, Delaware and Montgomery counties), but far exceeded the Pennsylvania median of $49,288. The median income figure in Bucks County obscures some sharp variations in income level. Certain types of households, for example, singles, households composed of unrelated people and those headed by women, are far more likely to have lower than median incomes. Families headed by women and people living alone are two of the groups that are disproportionately affected by housing costs. The number of female householder and no husband present families (singlemother families) has grown dramatically, and so has the gap between their incomes and those of married couple families. Overall, the poverty rate in Bucks County is 6.2% as of 2010, and 40% of all households fall in the low and moderate income range (0% 80% AMI). According to the American Communities Survey and HUD, the average home value in Bucks County is $300,900 and the Area Median Rent is $1,107. The high cost of housing makes securing and maintaining housing, both through rental and ownership, a challenge for many Bucks County residents. Housing cost burden is by far the most common housing problem among both renters and owners in Bucks County. A household is considered to have a housing cost burden if their housing costs exceed 30% of their income. Many households in Bucks County also experience severe housing cost burden, defined as housing costs greater than 50% of household income. Of the 50,995 households with one or more housing problem (lacking a complete kitchen or plumbing facilities, overcrowding, and cost burden), 97% of all households report cost burden as their main housing problem Census estimates put the countywide percentage of owner occupied housing at 77%. Although renters comprise only 23% of all households in the County, they represent 44% of all households experiencing a housing cost burden. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 19

21 There are no disproportionately greater needs based on race and ethnicity in regard to housing problems in Bucks County. Among non housing related community development needs, water and sewer improvements, street improvements, and sidewalks top the list of Public Improvement needs. Public service needs identified and addressed in this plan include emergency homeless shelter operations, senior centers and housing legal services. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 20

22 NA 10 Housing Needs Assessment 24 CFR , 24 CFR (a,b,c) Summary of Housing Needs Bucks County has a population of 625,249 and is comprised of 234,849 households. (2010 Census). Almost half (49%) of all households are considered small family households, defined as households containing 2 4 related members. One third (30%) of all households contain at least one person age 62 or older and 11% of all households have one or more children 6 years old or younger. Housing cost burden is by far the most common housing problem experienced by both renters and owners in Bucks County. The number of owners who experience the problem of housing cost burden (23,642) is 27% more than the number of renters (18,538). The number of owners who have a severe housing cost burden of more than 50% of income (12,872) is 29% more than the number of renters (10,014). Although renters comprise only 23% of all households in the County, they represent 44% of all households experiencing a housing cost burden. Demographics Base Year: 2000 Most Recent Year: 2010 % Change Population 597, ,249 5% Households 218, ,849 7% Median Income $0.00 $70, Table 5 Housing Needs Assessment Demographics Alternate Data Source Name: American Community Survey 5 Year Estimat Data Source Comments: Number of Households Table 0 30% >30 50% >50 80% >80 100% >100% HAMFI HAMFI HAMFI HAMFI HAMFI Total Households * 15,323 17,564 29,885 21, ,995 Small Family Households * 3,468 4,407 9,444 9,298 75,910 Large Family Households * ,341 1,915 13,172 Household contains at least one person years of age 3,095 4,133 7,011 4,293 20,858 Household contains at least one person age 75 or older 4,656 5,505 5,652 2,659 7,441 Households with one or more children 6 years old or younger * 1,407 2,092 3,720 3,397 13,278 Data Source: * the highest income category for these family types is >80% HAMFI Table 6 Total Households Table CHAS Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 21

23 Housing Needs Summary Tables 1. Housing Problems (Households with one of the listed needs) 0 30% AMI >30 50% AMI Renter >50 80% AMI >80 100% AMI Total 0 30% AMI >30 50% AMI Owner >50 80% AMI >80 100% AMI NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Substandard Housing Lacking complete plumbing or kitchen facilities Severely Overcrowded With >1.51 people per room (and complete kitchen and plumbing) Overcrowded With people per room (and none of the above problems) Housing cost burden greater than 50% of income (and none of the above problems) 5,994 2, ,714 4,515 3,988 4,340 1,795 Total 14,63 8 Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 22

24 0 30% AMI >30 50% AMI Renter >50 80% AMI >80 100% AMI Total 0 30% AMI >30 50% AMI Owner >50 80% AMI >80 100% AMI Housing cost burden greater than 30% of income (and none of the above problems) 808 2,850 4,565 1,029 9,252 1,266 3,472 5,962 5,116 Total 15,81 6 Zero/negative Income (and none of the above problems) Data Source: CHAS Table 7 Housing Problems Table 2. Housing Problems 2 (Households with one or more Severe Housing Problems: Lacks kitchen or complete plumbing, severe overcrowding, severe cost burden) 0 30% AMI >30 50% AMI Renter >50 80% AMI >80 100% AMI Total 0 30% AMI >30 50% AMI Owner >50 80% AMI >80 100% AMI NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Having 1 or more of four housing problems 6,298 3,151 1, ,869 4,575 4,078 4,495 1,904 15,052 Having none of four housing problems 1,885 4,042 8,686 5,126 19,739 1,804 6,297 15,449 14,005 37,555 Household has negative income, but none of the other housing problems Table 8 Housing Problems 2 Total Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 23

25 Data Source: CHAS 3. Cost Burden > 30% 0 30% AMI >30 50% AMI Renter >50 80% AMI Total 0 30% AMI Owner >50 80% AMI NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Small Related 1,729 2,061 1,490 5,280 1,425 1,554 4,325 7,304 Large Related ,203 1,809 Elderly 2,834 2,054 1,442 6,330 3,308 4,277 2,979 10,564 Other 2,263 1,510 2,373 6, ,160 1,832 3,965 Total need by income Data Source: CHAS >30 50% AMI Total 7,042 5,918 5,578 18,538 5,810 7,493 10,339 23,642 Table 9 Cost Burden > 30% 4. Cost Burden > 50% 0 30% AMI >30 50% AMI Renter >50 80% AMI Total 0 30% AMI >30 50% AMI Owner >50 80% AMI NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Small Related 1, ,542 1,312 1,243 2,004 4,559 Large Related Elderly 2,395 1, ,092 2,231 1,395 1,019 4,645 Other 2, , ,745 Total need by income Data Source: CHAS Total 6,226 2, ,014 4,536 4,004 4,332 12,872 Table 10 Cost Burden > 50% Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 24

26 5. Crowding (More than one person per room) 0 30% AMI >30 50% AMI Renter >50 80% AMI >80 100% AMI Total 0 30% AMI >30 50% AMI Owner >50 80% AMI >80 100% AMI NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS Single family households Multiple, unrelated family households Other, non family households Total need by income Data Source: CHAS Total Table 11 Crowding Information 1/2 0 30% AMI >30 50% AMI Renter >50 80% AMI Total 0 30% AMI >30 50% AMI Owner >50 80% AMI Total Households with Children Present Data Source Comments: Table 12 Crowding Information 2/2 Describe the number and type of single person households in need of housing assistance. Single person households comprise 23.8% of all households in Bucks County. During 2014, the Bucks County Housing Link/Coordinated Assessment assessed 196 single person households in need of housing assistance. Of those assessed, 51% were single men and 49% were single women. It was determined that 59% were literally homeless, ie. living on the streets or places not meant for human habitation. Thirty percent of the single person households were at imminent risk of losing their housing and becoming homeless. Of the 196 households assessed, 62% (122 households) needed only shortterm rental assistance and light touch case management to resolve their housing crisis. Estimate the number and type of families in need of housing assistance who are disabled or victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 25

27 In 2014, the Housing Link assessed 338 households in need of housing assistance that had one or more reported disability. Of those, 54% were single adult households, 33% were households with children, and 13% were adult couples. The January 2014 Point In Time Count (PIT) identified 30 domestic violence (DV) victims in emergency shelters and transitional housing in Bucks County. There were no unsheltered DV victims living on the street or places not meant for human habitation. A Woman s Place (AWP), Bucks County s Domestic Violence Agency, provides a wide range of services and support for victims and their families. AWP provides housing assistance to victims via a full service shelter in a confidential and secure location. During 2014, AWP received 413 calls for housing assistance via its Domestic Violence Hotline. Of those calling for assistance, 51% were White (171), 41% were African American (136), 7% were Latino or Hispanic, and less than 1% (3) were American Indian and Asian. AWP provided shelter to 47 women and 59 children during Of those assisted, 51% were White, 26% were African American, 17% were Hispanic 4% were Other/Unknown and 2% were Asian. The volume of calls for housing assistance for domestic violence victims and their families far outweighs AWP s resources. Callers are referred to the Housing Link and are also provided information on domestic violence shelters in neighboring counties if AWP is unable to provide housing assistance. The Network of Victim Assistance (NOVA) reported approximately 75 cases of stalking/sexual assault during 2014 in which the victims were in need of housing assistance. What are the most common housing problems? In terms of sheer numbers, housing cost burden is the most common housing problem among renters and owners in Bucks County. Of the 50,995 households with one or more housing problem (lacking a complete kitchen or plumbing facilities, overcrowding, and cost burden), 97% of all households report cost burden as their main housing problem. There are 1,092 households in Bucks County who are living in overcrowded housing situations; 86% of these households fall in the low and moderate income categories (0 80% AMI). Renters are more likely to experience overcrowding than owners and represent 73% of all households in this category. Among households who report substandard housing (lacking a complete kitchen or plumbing facilities) 63% are low income renters (0 50% AMI) and 43% are low income owners (0 50% AMI). Are any populations/household types more affected than others by these problems? Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 26

28 Many homeowners struggle to maintain housing stability due to housing cost burden. In fact, the number of owners who experience the problem of housing cost burden over 30% of income (23,642) is 27% more than the number of renters (18,538). The number of owners who have a severe housing cost burden of more than 50% of income (12,872) is 29% more than the number of renters (10,014). Census estimates for 2010 put the countywide percentage of owner occupied housing at 77%. Although renters comprise only 23% of all households in the County, they represent 44% of all households experiencing a housing cost burden. Housing cost burden disproportionately impacts low income residents with 92% of households reporting a housing problem falling in the low and moderate income range (0 80% AMI). Elderly households are the most likely to experience housing cost burden (41% owners, 36% renters). Describe the characteristics and needs of Low income individuals and families with children (especially extremely low income) who are currently housed but are at imminent risk of either residing in shelters or becoming unsheltered (c)/91.305(c)). Also discuss the needs of formerly homeless families and individuals who are receiving rapid re housing assistance and are nearing the termination of that assistance The Housing Link assessed approximately 276 households in 2014 that were at imminent risk of losing their housing. Of these, 69% (191 households) were already receiving some type of County assistance, 24% (65 households) were about two weeks away from eviction, and 21% (57 heads of households) had one or more reported disabling condition. Of the 276 households at risk of losing their housing, 61% (169 households) only needed short term rental assistance and light touch case management to resolve their housing crisis. Nine percent (25 households) needed long term housing assistance coupled with supportive services. Three main areas of need have been identified for families and individuals who are receiving rapid rehousing assistance and nearing the termination of that assistance. These needs include reliable transportation, financial management and budgeting skills, and connections to community supports and services in order to maintain permanent housing long term. It is essential in Bucks County to have reliable transportation to maintain employment. With limited public transportation, individuals and families rely on their own vehicle to access work and school. Without transportation, they are at risk of losing employment and returning to homelessness. The second identified need is financial management and budgeting. As the name indicates, rapid rehousing is a short term program with a focus on permanent housing. Those exiting the program often have difficulty with basic household budgeting skills, especially with limited income. They need assistance managing monthly bills and budgeting for emergencies. The third identified need is follow up case management for support while in the community. Those exiting rapid rehousing have resolved the immediate housing issue but need additional supports to keep and maintain housing. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 27

29 If a jurisdiction provides estimates of the at risk population(s), it should also include a description of the operational definition of the at risk group and the methodology used to generate the estimates: The definition of the at risk includes an individual or family who will imminently lose (within 14 days) their primary nighttime residence provided that no subsequent residence has been identified and the individual or family lacks the resources or support networks needed to obtain other permanent housing. The estimates were generated based on data provided by the Bucks County Housing Link/coordinated assessment program and the County s Homeless Management Information System. Specify particular housing characteristics that have been linked with instability and an increased risk of homelessness Characteristics linked to instability and increased risk of homelessness in Bucks County are low wage jobs, unemployment, mental illness (often undiagnosed or untreated), lack of post secondary education or trade, large family size, substance abuse history or active use, lack of affordable childcare resources, insufficient family income to support entire household budget without subsidy (these are households over income for government assistance), and finally high cost of housing in Bucks County. Discussion Although the overall poverty rate is low in Bucks County, 6.2% as of 2010, 40% of all households are considered low/moderate income, earning 0 80% of the Annual Median Income (AMI). The poverty rate climbs to more than 15% among households headed by women, and is higher (17.5%) for non family households composed of unrelated individuals. A far greater share of single mother families lives in poverty, compared to married couple or single father families. Income well in excess of the poverty rate is required to adequately support housing and living costs for a family. In Bucks County, 57% of all families that include one member age 62 and older are low/moderate AMI, as are 45% of all families that include one or more children under age 6. Twenty six percent of all small families (households comprised of 2 4 people) are low/moderate AMI. According to the American Communities Survey and HUD, the average home value in Bucks County is $300,900 and the Area Median Rent is $1,107. The high cost of housing make securing and maintaining housing, both through rental and ownership, a challenge for many Bucks County residents. Housing cost burden is by far the most common problem experienced by both homeowners and renters and increased affordable housing opportunities are needed throughout the jurisdiction. Increasing affordable housing will be accomplished through investments in construction of new affordable housing units for both renters and homeowners, acquisition and rehabilitation of housing units, and rental assistance in the form of Tenant Based Rental Assistance and Rapid Re Housing. Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 28

30 NA 15 Disproportionately Greater Need: Housing Problems , (b)(2) Assess the need of any racial or ethnic group that has disproportionately greater need in comparison to the needs of that category of need as a whole. Introduction According to the 2010 US Census, the total population of Bucks County is 625,249. The racial/ethnic breakdown is as follows: White 86.9% (543,207), Hispanic or Latino 4.3% (26,782), 3.8% (23,893) Asian, 3.4% (21,454) Black or African American, and 1.3% (8,212) Two or more races. A disproportionately greater need exists when the members of a racial or ethnic group at a given income level experience housing problems at a greater rate (10 percentage points or more) than the income level as a whole. For the purposes of this analysis, housing problems are defined as: lacks complete kitchen or plumbing facilities, more than one person per room, and cost burden greater than 30%. There are 51,125 households in Bucks County that are experiencing one or more of four housing problems (i.e. 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, and 4. Cost Burden greater than 30%). Of those households having one or more of four housing problems, 89% are White, 5% are Black or African American, 4% are Hispanic or Latino, and 2% are Asian. 0% 30% of Area Median Income Housing Problems Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 13,476 1,880 1,263 White 11,440 1,751 1,138 Black / African American Asian American Indian, Alaska Native Pacific Islander Hispanic Data Source: CHAS Table 13 Disproportionally Greater Need 0 30% AMI *The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30% Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 29

31 30% 50% of Area Median Income Housing Problems Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 13,358 4,568 0 White 11,709 4,245 0 Black / African American Asian American Indian, Alaska Native Pacific Islander Hispanic Data Source: CHAS Table 14 Disproportionally Greater Need 30 50% AMI *The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30% 50% 80% of Area Median Income Housing Problems Has one or more of four housing problems Has none of the four housing problems Household has no/negative income, but none of the other housing problems Jurisdiction as a whole 16,042 15,003 0 White 14,362 13,555 0 Black / African American Asian American Indian, Alaska Native Pacific Islander Hispanic Data Source: CHAS Table 15 Disproportionally Greater Need 50 80% AMI *The four housing problems are: 1. Lacks complete kitchen facilities, 2. Lacks complete plumbing facilities, 3. More than one person per room, 4.Cost Burden greater than 30% Consolidated Plan BUCKS COUNTY 30