Tenant/Landlord Education
We provide information to landlords and tenants about Michigan Housing law. Information is provided in four sessions per year or jointly. These educational services are designed to help prevent the breakdown in a relationship between a tenant and a landlord and to guarantee that rights are not violated, or responsibilities ignored. Our trained Housing Program Manager can assist with information and referrals. To assist those parties interested in avoiding the costly eviction process, we can offer services of tenant/landlord mediation.
House Finding
We also assist families who are looking for affordable housing by maintaining a resource file of local landlords with relatively inexpensive apartments, and providing a guide to all subsidized housing. Our Case Manager also provides direct assistance in house finding.
Guaranteed Security Deposit
CAH has funding available from the City of Holland to provide a limited number of guaranteed security deposits to eligible families. The program is designed to make rental property more accessible to households that are homeless and seeking permanent housing, yet lack the resources to pay for all move-in expenses. The guaranteed security deposit is provided in the form of an interest-free loan to be paid back by the recipient over an agreed-upon period of time. The agency guarantees the landlord will receive payment of the deposit amount in the event of damages prior to the deposit being paid in full, at which point the funds are transferred to the landlord. Eligible families must be homeless and have a sustainable income source. Properties must be located within Holland city limits.
Homelessness Prevention
Through funds from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) and the Holland and Zeeland United Ways, we are able to provide the equivalent of one month's rent or security deposit to a family to prevent or remedy homelessness. The funds are provided as a grant to the family or individual. The family must meet income and situational eligibility guidelines.
Home Ownership Counseling and Down Payment Grants
Home Ownership Counseling is a service provided by Community Action House in participation with MSHDA. Families with low to moderate incomes are eligible for this program. Classes are provided for two evenings and are offered monthly.
Community Housing Partnership
The Housing Partnership's single focus is to prevent homelssness and does so in a joint effort with Good Samaritan Ministries and area churches. Families and individuals residing in Ottawa county, who meet the federal-HUD definition of homelessness, are provided with stable housing for up to two years. During that time, Community Action House works alongside the family or individual to provide substantial support services. Therefore upon completion of the program participants are able to secure and maintain permanent, stable housing and be financially self-sufficient.
