November 2012 Region III HUDLine News

Serving Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia

Philadelphia Field Office at the conclusion of our own Veterans Day Celebration.

A Message from the Regional Administrator
Each and every year, I am reminded just how special the month of November is. I think of it as the month of thanks-and of giving.

We take the time to pause and to thank all of the men and women who have put their lives on the line to preserve our freedom. Veterans Day, forever memorializing the armistice of World War I in 1918, now stands as a day we honor all who have served in war or peacetime ever since. I'm pictured here with a few of our veterans in the Philadelphia Field Office at the conclusion of our own Veterans Day Celebration.

Breaking ground on JBJ Soul Homes

JBJ Soul Homes Groundbreaking
There's nothing like star power to attract a lot of attention to a good cause.

And, when rock star Jon Bon Jovi and Philadelphia Phillies owners Leigh and John Middleton are the donors, even a damp, cold, drizzly November day couldn't keep us away.

I had the privilege of breaking ground with all of them to celebrate JBJ Soul Homes, a soon-to-be constructed, four-story mixed-use development on Fairmount Avenue in Philadelphia.

What's great about the JBJ Soul Homes complex is that it achieves many goals. It creates a more sustainable community and provides access to retail, it is LEED Certified and energy efficient and the 55 units intended for providing homes for those who are currently homeless. It helps us move that much closer to ending homelessness, a common goal of the current administration's Opening Doors and Project H.O.M.E., a nonprofit dedicated to breaking the cycle of homelessness and poverty.

Broderick, an attendee at the 'Homeless Has a Name' Film Festival who was formerly homeless.

The initiative also represents a powerful partnership and collaboration between Project H.O.M.E., the City of Philadelphia, Greater Exodus Baptist Church and many others - including the JBJ Soul Foundation and Middleton Partnership.

I have to admit, the brightest shining star that dreary day was Walter Broadnax, a formerly homeless veteran, Alumnus and Trustee of Project H.O.M.E. There wasn't a dry eye under the tent when Walter personally thanked Jon Bon Jovi for his support. It made us all very proud-and thankful-to be on that stage and working together.

I'm joined by Leigh Middleton, Walter Broadnax and John Middleton for this photo after the official groundbreaking ceremony.

Combined Federal Campaign
You may not be aware that each year the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) provides Federal employees with an opportunity to join together and collectively help people in local communities, across the nation and around the world. For our Philadelphia Field Office kick-off event, we invited several of the area's nonprofits who are actively engaged in helping those who are homeless, to talk about the work they are doing.

I had the good fortune to meet Billie Steel, a Vietnam War Veteran who was formerly homeless. Billie proudly told us of his life changed for the better after he walked into Impact Services, one of HUD's Continuum of Care Program providers. "Without the HUD-VASH voucher, I would never have had a beautiful apartment to call home," he said. "I can't describe how it changed my life. HUD and the VA opened doors for me. They gave me the opportunity to turn my life around."

Billie told us how he received computer repair training that helped him become a volunteer at the Philadelphia Veterans Multi-Service and Education Center and, how most evenings he can be found back at Impact Services counseling and mentoring veterans who, like him, were also homeless. "I can't describe how beautiful everything is in my life," he closed. "I can smile, hold my head up and not be looking down anymore."

Janet Meyers - Covenant House, Billie Steel, Jane Vincent and Raymond Smith - United Way of Greater Philadelphia-Southern New Jersey, also serves as CFC Director for the Region.

We heard from Covenant House, an organization that provides shelter and job training to at-risk children and Back on My Feet (see our story on page 7) and Project H.O.M.E. We learned about the good work they are doing to help end homelessness in this region, and how those involved are giving back within our community. The films that we saw, the testimonials that we heard were inspiring.

Janet Meyers from Covenant House joined Billie, me and Raymond Smith from the United Way of Greater Philadelphia-Southern New Jersey, who also serves as CFC Director for the Region for a group photo at the kick-off.

In closing, I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all of you who work each and every day to support HUD's mission to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all. And, to wish you and yours a holiday season filled with giving.

Jane C.W. Vincent, Region III Regional Administrator
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

NEWS YOU CAN USE

The Century Building

Three Region III Developments Honored for Excellence in Workforce Housing
Each year, the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Terwilliger Center for Housing highlights the efforts of leaders across the country working to expand housing opportunity. The Jack Kemp Workforce Housing Models of Excellence Award recognizes exemplary developments that meet workforce housing needs in the local community. Developments are selected based on criteria that include affordability, proximity to centers of employment and transportation hubs, energy efficiency, sustainable green construction and land development, among others. Developments in HUD's Region III captured three of the five prizes, two winners and one honorable mention.

The Century Building: (www.uli.org/wp-content/uploads/ULI-Documents/Century-Building_in-layout_FINAL.pdf) - a 12-story, 80,000-square-foot former office building (pictured above left)-sits at the heart of Pittsburgh's Cultural District. In fall 2006, the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership formed the Downtown Housing Working Group to promote the development of affordable and workforce housing. Drawing on the working group's leadership, TREK Development Group redeveloped the underused office building into a mixed-use, mixed-income residential structure with 28 affordable (tax credit) units and 32 workforce housing units. Built in 1907, the Century Building is in a prime downtown location easily accessible by bus, light rail, and bicycle.

Rhode Island Row: (www.uli.org/wp-content/uploads/ULI-Documents/Rhode-Island-Row_in-layout_FINAL.pdf) is a 274-unit, mixed-use, transit-oriented development located at the Rhode Island Avenue-Brentwood Metrorail station in northeast Washington, D.C. The project, which also includes 70,000 square feet of ground-level retail space, was developed by RI Station LLC, a joint venture between Urban Atlantic and A&R Development Corporation. The developer worked closely with local government agencies, federal agencies, and community leaders to transform the underused 8.5-acre commuter parking lot into much-needed housing and retail space for residents of Ward 5, a neighborhood that historically has been home to low- and moderate-income residents.

The Beckstoffer's Mill Loft Apartments: (www.uli.org/wp-content/uploads/ULI-Documents/Beckstoffers_in-layout_FINAL.pdf) is a 22-unit adaptive use project that transforms a historic former lumber mill in Richmond, VA into high-quality, mixed-income apartments.

HUD FEDERAL REGISTER RULES, PROPOSED RULES & NOTICES

Multifamily Housing Mortgage and Housing Assistance Restructuring Program (Mark to Market): (https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2012/11/23/2012-28372/multifamily-housing-mortgage-and-housing-assistance-restructuring-program-mark-to-market)

Requirements for Lead-Based Paint Hazards in Federally Owned Residential Properties and Housing Receiving Federal Assistance: (https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2012/11/23/2012-28376/requirements-for-lead-based-paint-hazards-in-federally-owned-residential-properties-and-housing)

Request for Information on Adopting Smoke-Free Policies in Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) and Multifamily Housing: Reopening of Public Comment Period: (https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2012/11/23/2012-28519/request-for-information-on-adopting-smoke-free-policies-in-public-housing-agencies-phas-and)

Notice of Neighborhood Stabilization Program; Closeout Requirements and Recapture: (https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2012/11/27/2012-28642/notice-of-neighborhood-stabilization-program-closeout-requirements-and-recapture)

For additional information, visit the HUD Federal Registers page at hud.gov.

AROUND THE REGION

DELAWARE

The opening of Hampton Circle

The First Affordable Housing High-Rise in Seaford
On a sunny autumn day, Better Homes of Seaford President Norman Poole cut the ribbon to officially open its newest project, Hampton Circle. Home to low-income seniors and persons with disabilities, each of the 35 units has a spacious family room, a large kitchen, energy efficient appliances including a washer and dryer, and a balcony that backs up to woods. "It's hard to believe that Hampton Circle was just a concept in 2007 when I completed the first market study-and then the second-and the third in 2010," HUD's Region III Regional Administrator Jane C.W. Vincent said in her opening remarks. "I think we all believed at one point or another, that this project might never make it past the market study phase." HUD invested $1.5 million through the Delaware State Housing Authority in the $5.8 million project. Other funders included the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development, and the Wilmington Savings Fund Society. NCALL Research, Inc. provided technical support in assembling the application for financing and served as part of the development team and monitoring construction and rental of the units.

Free Website Links Renters and Landlords in Delaware
This fall, the Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) led the launch of a new state-wide free housing locator website that lets landlords advertise properties free of charge, while renters can search for free to find rentals that fit their needs. DelawareHousingSearch.org: (www.delawarehousingsearch.org) offers a wide range of property listings, included private market and assisted housing. Prospective tenants can search for housing according to their specific needs, such as proximity to medical facilities, public transit and schools. An accessible housing search helps locate units with no-step entry and accessible kitchen and bathroom features. Listings can be sorted by rent amount, zip code, date available and more. The initiative is funded through a partnership between DSHA, Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, New Castle County, City of Wilmington, Sussex County, Delaware Apartment Association and the United Way of Delaware. Residents can search online 24 hours a day, or call a toll-free, bilingual call center for assistance at 877-428-8844, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST.

Upcoming Events

• Dec. 3, Noon-2 p.m. - Foreclosure Prevention Awareness workshop, Elsmere Library, Elsmere, DE. For more information, please contact Shenise Ferrell at (302) 239-2363 or at sferrell.hockessincc@verizon.net.
• Dec. 6, 6-8 p.m. - Intro to Homeownership, YWCA Delaware, 153 East Chestnut Hill Road, Suite 102, Newark, DE 19713. To register, please call (302) 224-4060, ext. 200 or e-mail dfeainfo@ywcade.org.
• Dec. 7, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. - First-time Homebuyer Workshop, Hockessin Community Center, Inc., 1304 Old Lancaster Pike, 2nd Floor, Hockessin, DE 19707. For more information, contact Shenise Ferrell at (302) 239-2363 or at sferrell.hockessincc@verizon.net.
• Dec. 8, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. - Homebuyer Education, YWCA Delaware, 153 East Chestnut Hill Road, Suite 102, Newark, DE 19713. To register, please call (302) 224-4060, ext. 200 or email dfeainfo@ywcade.org.
• Dec. 27, Jan. 24 or Feb. 19, 6-7:45 p.m. - CCCS-Inc.'s Mortgage Foreclosure Prevention Workshops, Elsmere Library, 30 Spruce Avenue, Elsmere, DE 19805. To register, please call (800) 267-5002 or (302) 792-1200 or visit www.delawaremoneyschool.com: (http://delawaremoneyschool.com).
• Jan. 17, 8 a.m.-Noon - Delaware National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials (DE NAHRO) presents: Tenant's Rights and Responsibilities Under the Tenant/Landlord Code, POLYTECH Adult Education Center, 823 Walnut Shade Road, Dover, DE 19901. Learn how tenants' rights and responsibilities are outlined and affected by the Delaware Residential Landlord Tenant Code. For additional information and registration form contact Paula Sims at paulasims1@yahoo.com.

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Pathways to Housing's Christy Respress and Hannah Zollman

Pathways to Housing DC Finds Success with "Housing First"
The DC Housing Authority wait list is over 20 years longI'll. So while many used Veteran's Day to thank a service member, others helped them find a new home. Pathways to Housing DC spends every day helping vets get permanent homes using the "Housing First" concept. Launched in DC in 2004, it focuses on homeless people coming in and out of hospitals and jails who have serious mental or physical illnesses or addiction. The group partners with organizations like the Downtown Improvement District to find homeless vets in need of housing. It provides emergency help like security deposits and furniture.

Each November, Pathways DC participates in the annual Help the Homeless Walkathon sponsored by the Fannie Mae Corporation. Long partner and supporter of Pathways DC programming, the Fannie Mae Foundation holds the walkathon each year to help prevent and end homelessness. It is the largest of its kind, with thousands of Washington-area residents converging on the National Mall for a 5K walk that brings together city officials, business leaders, and organizations such as Pathways and the clients we serve. For more information about Pathways to Housing DC, visit www.pathwaystohousing.org.

Keeping the Most Vulnerable from Exposure to Cold and Frigid Weather
The 2012-2013 Hypothermia Prevention Program is an integral part of the Fairfax County, Virginia's efforts to prevent and end homelessness that incorporates the collaborative work of area faith communities, civic organizations, businesses and individual volunteers. Again this year, the partners will open their shelters to "no turn-away" status effective on Nov. 1 (even if the weather is not at freezing temperatures). If temperatures do drop below freezing prior to this date, no turn-away status is in effect. To learn more about Fairfax County's program, go here: (www.fairfaxcounty.gov/homeless/hypothermia-prevention/).

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): (www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ocs/resource/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-provides-help-for-struggling) is a federal program established in 1981 and funded annually by Congress. LIHEAP offers financial assistance to qualifying low-income households to help them pay their home heating or cooling bills. Under federal law, a household must have income below either 150 percent of the federal poverty level or 60 percent of state median income level, whichever is higher. For more information and to apply, contact your local office: in the District of Columbia, (202) 673-6750 (to apply) or (202) 673-6700 (for information); in Maryland, (800) 552-1446; and in Virginia, (800) 230-6977.

Freddie Mac Issues Updated Servicing Guidance for Financially Distressed Homeowners
Effective Nov. 1, Freddie Mac updated a series of requirements that will help facilitate a more timely, effective foreclosure process for financially distressed clients seeking an alternative to foreclosure. Freddie Mac Servicers can now begin approving short sales and deeds-in-lieu without obtaining pre-approval from the participating mortgage insurance companies. The Home Affordable Modification program and Freddie Mac Standard Modification requirements have also been revised to further streamline borrower documentation requirements. For more information, visit the Housing Professionals Resource Center: (http://freddiemac.sparklist.com/t/424592/5346668/4698/26/).

• Dec. 5 - International Economic Development Council's "Economic Recovery in Disaster Impacted Communities" web seminar. To register, go here: (http://tinyurl.com/b26je3m).
• Dec. 13, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. - Greater Washington Urban League, Financial Literacy Seminars, Pepco Community Room, 2901 14th Street, Washington, DC. For more information, email traceyjohnson@gwul.org. To register online, visit www.gwul.org.
• Dec. 15, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. - Greater Washington Urban League, First Time Homebuyer's Seminar, New Carrollton Library, 7414 Riverdale Road, New Carrollton, MD. Call (301) 459-6900.

MARYLAND

Habitat for Humanity Breaks Ground for 21 Homes in Baltimore

Habitat for Humanity Breaks Ground for 21 Homes in Baltimore
Habitat for Humanity of the Chesapeake broke ground on what will be 21 new homes for 21 new homeowners on McCabe Avenue in Baltimore. More than 75 people gathered recently to celebrate what those with Habitat say will be a transformation in the community. At the event, Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake described the planned project as "long-awaited" and "highly-anticipated." The mayor said she values the hard work of Habitat for Humanity of the Chesapeake. "For too many years, the city's bureaucracy prevented groups like yours from taking ownership of properties," Mayor Rawlings-Blake said. Over the past 30 years, more than 300 Central Maryland area homes have been purchased by hard-working people in need of simple, decent housing through Habitat for Humanity of the Chesapeake. Habitat families purchase their homes through a zero-interest, 30-year mortgage program where they build equity, achieve long-term financial security and escape the cycle of poverty. Future McCabe Homebuyer, Kisha Glidden, shares her appreciation for the opportunity to purchase her own home through Habitat for Humanity of the Chesapeake. Read more: (www.abc2news.com/dpp/news/region/baltimore_city/habitat-breaks-ground-in-mccabe-ave-community#ixzz2CQLdASrm).

Enterprise Homes, Inc. Recognized for Affordable Housing
Enterprise Homes, Inc. announced that several of its recently developed communities were recognized - Harper House in Columbia, Md. as recipient of an Urban Land Institute (ULI) Baltimore WaveMaker award (pictured at left); The Greens at Liberty Road in Randallstown, Md. as the overall winner of the Property Management Association's (PMA) Apartment Community Excellence (PACE) Award for "Affordable Communities with Rents Less than $900"; and The Greens at Hammonds Lane in Brooklyn Park, Md., also honored by the PMA as a 2012 distinguished community. Enterprise Homes, Inc. has completed more than 5,000 affordable and market-rate homes and rental residences in communities throughout the mid-Atlantic region through their collaboration with nonprofit and for-profit housing organizations, community groups, as well as city and county agencies to produce high quality housing, creating vibrant mixed-income communities. To read more, go here: (www.enterprisecommunity.com/news-and-events/news-releases/enterprise-homes-pace-wave-award).

Maryland Earns An A+ in Green Affordable Housing Report
Maryland joined Connecticut as the first states to earn a perfect score from Global Green USA, a national nonprofit organization that evaluates green building strategies that help promote healthy and energy efficient affordable housing for low-income families. Read the report: (www.globalgreen.org/i/2012QAP_Final.pdf). States were graded on smart growth, energy efficiency, resource conservation and health protection. Maryland and Connecticut earned an A+ on the organization's ranking system.In 2009, Governor O'Malley launched the Smart, Green & Growing: (www.green.maryland.gov/whatis.html) initiative designed to help create a more sustainable future for the state. His goal is to involve every Marylander in reducing our carbon footprint, preserving our most valuable resource lands and restoring the health of the Chesapeake Bay. Maryland's state agencies, local governments, businesses and citizens have already begun working together toward our vision for a smarter, greener, more sustainable State. Together we are creating more livable communities, improving transportation options, supporting resource-based industries and investing in green technologies. Visit DHCD's website at mdhousing.org: (www.dhcd.state.md.us/Website/Default.aspx)to see how programs and initiatives such as Sustainable Communities, weatherization assistance and Be SMART help promote smarter choices for Marylanders of all walks of life.

HUD's Baltimore Field Office and Office of Healthy Homes & Lead Hazard Control invite you to the Maryland Integrated Pest Management Forum. Targeted for Multifamily Owners, Agents, Service Coordinators, Resident Coordinators, Resident Association Representatives, Public Housing Agencies, Maryland State Agencies, Health Departments and Non-Profit Organizations. The Dec. 4 event will be held from 8:15 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the University of Maryland SMC Center, 621 West Lombard Street in Baltimore.

"Segregation and Fair Housing in the Baltimore Area" Topic of Dec. 12 Discussion
Antero Pietila, author of Not in My Neighborhood, local housing officials and advocates will discuss the roots of residential segregation in the Baltimore metropolitan area and efforts to overcome present-day barriers to fair housing choice. Baltimore Field Office Director Carol Payne will serve as moderator for the Dec. 12 event at the Wheeler Auditorium of the Enoch Pratt Free Library in Baltimore beginning at 6:30 p.m.

PENNSYLVANIA - EASTERN REGION

Ground broken for first-in-nation LGBT-friendly senior housing in Philadelphia

Ground broken for first-in-nation LGBT-friendly senior housing in Philadelphia
With rainbow-colored shovels, city, state and federal officials broke ground for the first LGBT-friendly senior housing facility in the nation. Named for John C. Anderson, the six-story apartment complex will have 56-units serving low-income seniors. The building is named for the late John C. Anderson, who as a Philadelphia city councilman, worked for gay rights. The concept of the apartment complex began eight years ago and got actively underway about three years ago after receiving funding from HUD, state and private sources.

Philadelphia Executive Director Jill Fink, Therion M. and Ben Houck

Helping Others Get "Back on My Feet" Again
In his day job as an economist with HUD's Policy, Development & Research team in Philadelphia, Ben Houck provides analyses of market conditions and reviews mortgages for market rate housing. But Beverly Harvey, EMAD Regional Economist, tapped Ben to provide statistical analysis in preparations for RSTAT meetings in Regions 3 and 7 which focused on HUD's progress on ending family, chronic and veterans homelessness. Why? Because she knew of Ben's real passion. Three mornings a week, Ben rises in the wee hours to make a 5:30 a.m. run. His companions? Back on my Feet runners. Back on My Feet is a nonprofit organization that promotes the self-sufficiency of those who are homeless by engaging them in running as a means to build confidence, strength and self-esteem. Philadelphia Executive Director Jill Fink and Therion M. (who describes himself as Ready, Willing and Able) joined Ben to talk about the work of Back on My Feet at the Philadelphia Field Office's Combined Federal Campaign kick-off. "Back on My Feet is a great experience for me as a volunteer because it combined my hobbies of running and volunteering," Ben thoughtfully conveyed. "I believe it's benefited the guys involved in the program by building around them a supportive community in the often-negative shelter environment and encouraging them to set and achieve goals while improving their health and fitness." For more information or to volunteer, visit their website: (http://philadelphia.backonmyfeet.org/Philadelphia-Landing.html)

George McDowell, Public Housing Revitalization Specialist, Office's Representative for the Housing Authority of Chester County, Regional Administrator Jane Vincent and Dennis Bellingtier, Director of the Office of Public Housing

Housing Authority of Chester County Celebrates Replacement Housing at Fairview Village
"Good things come to those who wait? Then, you all should have more than your share of 'good things' at Fairview Village," Regional Administrator Jane C.W. Vincent quipped in her remarks at the celebration of the first development phase in the re-construction of Fairview Village, a community that was originally built in 1970. Like much of what was built more than 40 years ago, the buildings were obsolete and in very poor condition. And for those in attendance, the Fairview story began with the demolition of the original 25 units of public housing. Funded by a mixture of federal funds, county funds and low-income housing tax credits, HUD is investing about three million dollars in capital funds for the construction of the replacement housing. In a true collaboration to develop and preserve quality, healthy and affordable homes, the Fairview story will continue as the Housing Authority of Chester County partners with Pennrose Properties LLC to build 36 new units of affordable housing in seven two-story buildings. Dennis Bellingtier, Director of the Office of Public Housing (pictured at right) and George McDowell, who serves as a Public Housing Revitalization Specialist and is the Office's Representative for the Housing Authority of Chester County, joined RA Vincent at the event.

PENNSYLVANIA - WESTERN REGION

Chuck Scalise

Affordable Housing Roots Run Deep
Chuck Scalise has been in the business of affordable housing development since the age of six. That's right, while other youngsters were testing out new crayons in their coloring books, Chuck was mailing out newsletters to those looking for affordable housing opportunities. His parents, Charlie and Kathy Scalise and several other housing innovators in 1966 developed the St. Martin De Portes Voluntary Improvement Housing Association, now known as the Housing and Neighborhood Development Service (H.A.N.D.S.). Chuck was by their side then, and continues to embolden their mission now as the Executive Director of the organization he grew up with. Today, Chuck can view his parents' legacy through the lens of 1,400 individuals living in HANDS homes throughout Erie and Crawford Counties. Moving from constructing singular housing units to entire neighborhoods has been a natural evolution for H.A.N.D.S. Meeting with neighbors and myriad municipal economic development departments allows H.A.N.D.S. to keep current on trends and salient housing needs This community centered approach confirms the viability and sustainability of an organization that has deep roots in respecting that everyone deserves an affordable place to call "home." To read more, go here: (www.wqln.org/main/lake erie lifestyle/editions/12_11/).

Pittsburgh Field Office Launches Annual Charitable Giving Campaign

Pittsburgh Field Office Launches Annual Charitable Giving Campaign
HUD Pittsburgh Field Office staffers recently learned that cold case units aren't just fictional subjects on television shows as the listened intently to Mike Bartley of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at their Combined Federal Campaign kick-off last month. Bartley demonstrated how the agency uses the internet to help their Case Analysis Division and other units find missing children, reunite families and end child exploitation on our streets. His personal testimony may help HUD staffers determine how to direct their charitable giving during the federal government's annual campaign. Orchestrated by Lead Contact Mark O'Matz and his key workers Cyndi Evans, Marva Tolbert, Phoebe Buchanan, Pam Whitelock, Malea Cochran and Michael Whitelock, the Pittsburgh Field Office hopes to eclipse last year's 31 donations of $9,455. This year's goal is to encourage 40 donors to provide $10,000 to charitable organizations of their choice. HUD CFC Lead Mark O'Matz (pictured left) with CFC Campaign Coordinator Amy Ervin and Mike Bartley.

HUD's Green Academy Comes to Pittsburgh
HUD's Green Academy offers green building training to HUD grantees and other affordable housing organizations. The Pittsburgh HUD Field Office will host the next Green Academy training series on Dec. 3-7 at the William Moorhead Federal Building at 1000 Liberty Avenue, Room 1310, Pittsburgh, PA. For more information and course content visit www.sustainable-performance.org/HUDGreenAcad. Questions? Contact hud@sustainable-performance.org.

Upcoming Events

• Dec. 3-5 - Homes Within Reach Conference, Pennsylvania's annual housing conference will focus on tackling blight, ending homelessness and expanding development opportunities rural, urban and suburban communities. The two-day event will feature 52 workshops, seven plenary sessions and two, one-day summits on blight and homelessness. For more information visit www.housingalliancepa.org/events/homes-within-reach-conference.
• Dec. 4, 1 to 2 p.m. - Eco-Logical Webinar: Integrating Natural Resources, Transportation and Land Use Plans. Register Now! (https://www.nhi.fhwa.dot.gov/resources/webconference/web_conf_learner_reg.aspx?webconfid=25407)
• Dec. 8, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. - Homebuyer Education Workshop, NeighborWorks Homeownership Center, 710 Fifth Avenue Suite 1000, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. Lunch will be provided. To register, call (412) 281-9773 or (412) 281-1100, x 121 or online at www.nwwpa.org.
• Dec. 13, 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. - 12th Annual Smart Growth Conference: "Partnering for Prosperity: Business and Local Government in SWPA", David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Downtown Pittsburgh this year's conference will focus on new platforms for collaboration and pressing regional issues of: transportation, green infrastructure and water source reduction, and innovative finance for urban redevelopment. Register now!: (http://sustainablepittsburgh.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=8df15e536b6d48ee97c824408&id=dee5aed6c6&e=31c3d4684a)

VIRGINIA

HUD'S Richmond Field Office Hosts Lenders Roundtable
Carrie Schmidt, Director, Richmond Field Office, working collaboratively with Region III, the Philadelphia Homeownership Center and the Single Family Housing leadership team in HUD Headquarters, hosted 16 lenders and servicers to a roundtable discussion in Richmond on Nov. 20. Discussion topics included communication and training needs, increased utilization of the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Resource Center, credit availability, underwriting and documentation and quality assurance/risk management.

Jane Vincent, Regional Administrator, kicked off the meeting with opening remarks. Julie Shaffer, Philadelphia HOC Director then facilitated the roundtable dialogue. Julie asked the attendees for their views on the state of FHA and the challenges they face.

Dave Dwyer shared his vision for the FHA Resource Center and the increased role it will play in the future. Andy Cianci, Director, Processing and Underwriting Division, provided an overview of the challenges facing FHA and its effect on its business partners. Justin Burch, Director, Quality Assurance Division, shared his thoughts about the importance of lender compliance with HUD documentation requirements.

The overarching message conveyed by HUD representatives was one of exercising prudent lending practices in order to serve the target market while still achieving FHA's core mission of assisting low-to-moderate-income borrowers and first-time homebuyers.

Virginia makes headway on homelessness
According to a Nov. 14 Richmond Times-Dispatch story, homelessness declined eight percent in the past two years in Virginia overall and 11 percent for families. Gov. Bob McDonnell's office issued the announcement during the opening of the 2012 Governor's Housing Conference in Roanoke. The article noted that in the same period, the state has seen a decrease of 36 percent in the number of people experiencing chronic homelessness. His office attributed the reduction to a focus on rapid re-housing - or trying to more quickly move people into permanent housing while providing supportive community services. Compiled by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development and the Virginia Coalition to End Homelessness, the numbers came from data collected in January by local Continuum of Care groups, including shelters and local social services offices.

Telecommunications Equipment Now Available for Military Veterans
The Virginia Department for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (VDDHH) and Virginia Relay have announced that military veterans living with a hearing or speech loss are now automatically eligible for telecommunications equipment through Virginia's Technology Assistance Program (TAP). To learn more about VDDHH, Virginia Relay and TAP for veterans, call (800) 552-7917 v/tty or visit www.vddhh.org.

Casius Pealer with Oystertree Consulting, Andrea Foss with Everyday Green, Matt Pesce from Facility Strategies Group, and Kate StClair with GDS Associates provided "HUD Green Academy" training for 18 housing partners at the Richmond Office. HUD's Green Academy: (www.sustainable-performance.org/HUDGreenAcad) is an exciting pilot initiative that offers green building training to HUD grantees and other affordable housing organizations.

Congratulations!

To Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority: (www.nrha.us/content/state-farm-and-norfolk-redevelopment-and-housing-authority-nrha-sow-seeds-community-gardens) (NRHA) on its award of a grant from State Farm to allow young residents of NRHA assisted-rental communities to sow the seeds for community gardens.

To Piedmont Housing Alliance on its award of a grant from the U.S. Treasury's Community Development Financial Institutions Fund: (www.piedmonthousing.org/images/uploads/PRESS_RELEASE_-_CDFI_FY12_Award.pdf) to increase community development services and lending capacity.

Upcoming Events

• Dec. 5 in Martinsville or Dec. 6 in Abington: Virginia's Department of Housing and Community Development's Community Revitalization Office will host information sessions on Virginia Main Street. Register here: (https://dmz1.dhcd.virginia.gov/dhcdevents/registration.aspx?EID=59).
• Jan. 24, 2013 - Point-in Time count of homeless persons in *most of Virginia. There are a few more required HUD data elements this year; see this link: (www.hudhre.info/documents/2013HICandPITGuidance.pdf) for details. For more information please contact the Continuum of Care lead agency: (www.hudhre.info/index.cfm?do=viewCocContacts&st=VA&cSort=#tl) in your community, or contact Matt Leslie: (matt.leslie@dhcd.virginia.gov) at Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). *Northern Virginia Continuums of Care will coordinate Point-in-Time with the Washington, DC Continuum of Care on Jan. 30, 2013.

WEST VIRGINIA

One Night Without a Home
On Nov. 15, the Kanawha Valley Collective held its annual One Night Without a Home event. Community members, volunteers and individuals who are homeless participating in the event faced a windy and cold night without permanent shelter-a common occurrence for those living on the streets. Some volunteers had previously experienced homelessness, but through services provided in the Charleston and Kanawha County, they were able to find permanent housing, educational opportunities and jobs. Now a homeowner who was at one time homeless, a volunteer participates in order to give back to those that have helped her. Historically held during National Hunger and Homeless Week, the event builds awareness of the approximately 800 individuals who face homelessness in West Virginia each and every night. One U.S. Army Veteran, who had owned a home and automobile before losing both a few years ago, had a daughter who was a student at Marshall University before he hit bottom and she had to drop out. Through the support and services of the local shelters and the Kanawha Valley Collective, both are now taking classes at Kanawha Valley Community and Technical College.

West Virginia Stand Down Attracts 100 Veterans

West Virginia Stand Down Attracts 100 Veterans
Roark-Sullivan Lifeway Center hosted its 7th Annual Stand Down for Homeless Veterans on Oct. 2. The event, made possible by funds from the West Virginia Division of Labor, was held at the Appalachian Power Park in Charleston. Approximately 100 Veterans attended the event and received valuable resources and information from over 25 participating vendors. Attendees received haircuts, flu vaccinations, and attended information sessions with representatives from the Huntington VA Medical Center and Regional Offices. Stand Downs are collaborative events coordinated between the VA, other government agencies, and community agencies who serve the homeless. Stand Downs originated during the Vietnam War and were designed to provide a safe retreat for military service members returning from combat operations.

HUD's Office of international and Philanthropic Innovation is inviting HUD partners to showcase innovative practices in our communities. The Innovation of the Day initiative was developed as a hub for collecting and disseminating innovative housing, community development, built environment and urban practices. Its purpose is to crowd-source new models that can be leveraged not only within HUD, but by other agencies, municipalities, philanthropies, non-profits and citizens. Additional benefits include the ability to identify emerging trends, promising solutions, and successful means of implementation. Share your innovations with us or search our database for emerging practices in your own community or from around the world! For more information on Innovation of the Day, please visit HUD's blog. We invite you to submit a brief description about your innovative project online at Innovation of the Day.

Upcoming Events

• Dec. 5, 9 a.m. - Kanawha Valley Collective Homeless Meeting, United Way Bldg., Charleston, WV
• Dec. 28, 10 a.m. - Cabell-Huntington Coalition for the Homeless Meeting, Huntington City Mission Huntington, WV

OTHER FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

• Ongoing - The U.S. Department of Labor is accepting applications for "Stand Down": (www.dol.gov/vets/grants/main.htm) grants that will provide an estimated 10,000 homeless veterans with opportunities to reintegrate into society. The grants are being awarded under the department's Homeless Veterans' Reintegration Program: (www.dol.gov/vets/grants/hvrp.htm).
• Ongoing - Applications are being accepted for the U.S. Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration's (EDA) Planning Program and Local Technical Assistance Program: (www.grants.gov/search/announce.do;jsessionid=
  6QgmQhyJwTFFCGsTcPjfb1drcgrYRgxh8SLRvWhR0XGnQGpmTX43!913730029) grants to create regional economic development plans designed to stimulate and guide the economic development efforts of a community or region.
• Ongoing - Wells Fargo Homeownership: (https://www.wellsfargo.com/about/wfhf/homeownership_guideline) grant program to help local nonprofit housing organizations create sustainable homeownership opportunities for low-to-moderate-income people.
• Dec. 3 - National Fish and Wildlife Foundation: Wells Fargo Environmental Solutions for Communities: (www.nfwf.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Home&TEMPLATE=/CM/ContentDisplay.cfm&CONTENTID=26041) is offering grants to support projects that link economic development and community well-being to the stewardship and health of the environment.
• Dec. 3 - National Gardening Association: (http://grants.kidsgardening.org/2013-youth-garden-grant-award) is offering Youth Garden Grants through Home Depot. Five winners will receive gift cards valued at $1,000, and 95 winners will receive $500 gift cards, to purchase gardening materials and supplies from their local Home Depot store specific to the needs of their program.
• Dec. 11 - Applications are due for The Employment and Training Administration (ETA), U.S. Department of Labor's "Pay for Success" pilot grants: (www.doleta.gov/grants/pdf/pfs_sga_dfa_py_11_13.pdf).
• Dec. 15 - FISKARS' Project Orange Thumb: (www2.fiskars.com/Community/Project-Orange-Thumb) seeks applications for ten $5,000 Community Garden Grants and Makeovers to help communities achieve their neighborhood beautification goals and support healthy, sustainable food sources.
• Dec. 20 - Applications are due for Ronald McDonald House Charities Scholarship program: (http://rmhc.org/what-we-do/rmhc-u-s-scholarships/).
• Dec. 21 - The Mary Byron Project: (http://marybyronproject.org/) is accepting applications for the $10,000 Roth Award for Domestic Violence Programs Focused on Underserved Populations for a nonprofit or government program focused on reaching underserved victims of domestic violence.
• Dec. 31 - Applications are due for the US Department of Agriculture Notice of Funding Availability: (https://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2012/02/06/2012-2539/notice-of-funding-availability-nofa-for-loan-guarantees-under-the-guaranteed-rural-rental-housing) for guaranteed loans under Section 538 Guaranteed Rural Rental Housing for FY 2012.
• Jan. 14, 2013 - The National Endowment for the Arts: (http://arts.gov/national/ourtown/index.php) has released funding guidelines for Our Town Applications for projects in rural communities that improve their quality of life; encourage greater creative activity; foster stronger community identity and a sense of place and revitalize economic development.
• Jan. 15, 2013 - The American Association of University Women: (www.aauw.org/learn/fellowships_grants/community_action.cfm) (AAUW) is accepting applications for Community Action Grants from individuals as well as local community-based nonprofit organizations for innovative programs or non-degree research projects that promote education and equity for women.
• Jan. 25, 2013 - Applications are due for U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Administration for Children and Families Assets for Independence: (www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/open/foa/view/HHS-2011-ACF-OCS-EI-0137) program.
• Feb. 1, 2013 - The Corporation for National and Community Service: (www.nationalservice.gov/for_organizations/funding/nofa_detail.asp?tbl_nofa_id=98) is offering funding to nonprofits and local and state governments to establish AmeriCorps programs that will offer AmeriCorps volunteers the opportunity to become involved in a range of community improvement activities.
• Feb. 1, 2013 - The Department of Veterans Affairs: (www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf.asp) is offering grants to nonprofits to provide supportive services to very low-income veteran families, especially those who are homeless or in danger of becoming homeless.
• Feb. 16, 2013 - The Gannett Foundation's Community Action Grants: (www.gannettfoundation.org/GUIDELINES.htm) support nonprofit organizations with funding priority given to programs that focus on education and neighborhood improvement, economic development, youth development, community problem-solving.

Region III Field Office Contact Information
Jane C.W. Vincent, Region III Regional Administrator

HUD Capital District
Marvin W. Turner, Field Office Director
(202) 275-9200, hud.gov/districtofcolumbia

HUD Delaware
Maria L. Bynum, Field Office Director
(302) 573-6300, hud.gov/delaware

HUD Maryland
Carol B. Payne, Field Office Director
(410) 962-2520, hud.gov/maryland

HUD Eastern Pennsylvania
Richard Ott, Deputy Regional Administrator
(215) 656-0500, hud.gov/pennsylvania

HUD Western Pennsylvania
Jane Miller, Field Office Director
(412) 644-6428, hud.gov/pennsylvania

HUD Virginia
Carrie S. Schmidt, Field Office Director
(804) 822-4804, hud.gov/virginia

HUD West Virginia
Peter C. Minter, Field Office Director
(302) 347-7000, hud.gov/westvirginia

Region III HUDLine News
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