where recipients can apply for and recertify eligibility. But AccessHRA does not offer these functions to CityFHEPS recipients.and a small handful of the homeless shelters that partner with the city can use Current, officials said.
Two weeks ago, Jasna Willie, 28, found out she was facing eviction after the city failed to pay its portion of her rent through CityFHEPS and the HRA’s shelter allowance fund, THE CITY reported. Willie says she didn’t know she had to recertify or that payments were missing until she was summoned to housing court.
“The initial recertification documents were simple,” the seasonal construction worker told THE CITY via text message. “Just had to check off and sign.” “I’ve been trying to renew my CityFHEPS voucher since May of 2022. People that I’ve spoken to, you know, tell me ‘don’t worry about it,’ you know, ‘you understand, when they get to you it’ll be resolved,’” Perez told the Council. “It’ll be resolved, but still, you know, it’s stressful.”
Responsiveness ranged widely at all 26 Homebases contacted by THE CITY. Staff at some said they prioritize CityFHEPS recertification clients, and can arrange appointments immediately over the phone or email. Other calls went straight to voicemail messages that warned callback times would take up to six weeks and that the next available appointment with a caseworker wouldn’t be until August. Some calls went unanswered altogether.