For Immediate Release 

The Troy Housing Authority is echoing First Lady Michelle Obama’s recent call asking landlords to join in the fight against veteran homelessness.
In a video message, the First Lady urged landlords to make units available to veterans using rental assistance vouchers. This system helps veterans acquire affordable, safe and permanent housing through private landlords. However, veterans who receive these vouchers sometimes find a lack of housing options.
“Local landlords and property owners are a vital partner in ending veteran homelessness,” said THA Executive Secretary Daniel Crawley. “We urge landlords to consider working with us to open their doors to the men and women who have served our country.”
This voucher system can also benefit landlords by guaranteeing regular rent payment and staff support. Landlords may interview prospective tenants before signing a lease, as in a regular rental.
Interested landlords can call THA at 273-3600 ext. 239, email info@troyhousing.org or visit troyhousing.org for more information.
Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) vouchers combine Housing Choice Voucher rental assistance with other services and case management for veterans. Since 2008, a total of 79,000 HUD-VASH vouchers have been awarded nationwide.
The Albany Stratton VA Medical Center has awarded 320 HUD-VASH vouchers over their service area, which stretches as far north as Plattsburgh and as far south as Kingston.
THA has developed plans to build 8 units of permanent veterans housing in the vacant lot at 555 and 557 Second Avenue in Lansingburgh.
At the Troy Housing Authority, veterans receive a preference point and more quickly move through the wait list for low-income public housing. THA is also in the process of creating eight units of permanent veterans housing at 555 and 557 Second Avenue, rebuilding two burned-out buildings purchased from the City of Troy.