1. Healthcare

Frequently Asked Wait List Application Questions and Selected Policies
January 2015
Version: 8
Q1: When and what time does the Wait List open? What Wait List will be open?
A1: The Housing Authority of the City of Alameda will open the Wait List for the Housing
Choice Voucher (the Section 8 Tenant-Based Voucher) Program on Thursday,
January 29, 2015 at 10:00 a.m., PST. It will stop accepting applications on Tuesday,
February 3, 2015 at 9:59 a.m., PST.
Q2: How is an application submitted?
A2: To better serve applicants and to make the application process available to all,
including those who are least likely to apply, the entire application process is available
online at www.waitlistcheck.com/CA955. A link to this website is available at
www.alamedahsg.org. Applications can only be provided online. No applications will be
provided at the Housing Authority. Applicants must apply during the period the list is
open for applications. A confirmation receipt is issued immediately after the application
is submitted by e-mail. An e-mail address is required. A link to a free e-mail service is
on the application page. Written reasonable accommodation requests due to a
disability may be submitted in advance.
Q3: Does it matter if the application is submitted at the exact opening time?
A3: No. The time and date of receipt of the application online has no bearing on
whether an application will be selected for the Wait List. There is no need or advantage
to applying immediately after the list opens. In fact, those who do may experience
slower response times from the online system. Out of all the applications received, 750
applications will be randomly selected for placement on the Wait List. Once these 750
applications are selected, claimed preferences will be applied, so the applicants will be
processed by the aggregate number of preference points for which the family is eligible
and then by the lottery number randomly assigned to the applicant.
Q4: What are the hours that the website will accept applications?
A4: The WaitListCheck website will accept applications 24 hours a day from January 29,
2015 at 10:00 a.m., PST until February 3, 2015 at 9:59 a.m., PST.
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 1 of 19
Q5: How can an application be completed if there is no internet or computer in
the home?
A5: You may use any computer, smartphone or tablet. To ensure availability and
access to the online system, the Housing Authority of the City of Alameda has partnered
with the organizations listed below. During the Wait List opening these agencies will
have workstations with internet access to allow applicants who do not have access the
option to apply. Additionally, volunteers will be present at these locations to assist those
who need help with the online process. Most public libraries also provide free internet
access.
Mastick Senior Center
1155 Santa Clara Ave
Alameda, CA 94501
HOURS: Thursday, Friday, and
Monday
9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Ethiopian Community Cultural Center
6116 Telegraph Ave
Oakland, CA 94609
HOURS: Thursday and Monday
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Alameda Point Collaborative
451 Stardust
Alameda, CA 94501
HOURS: Thursday, Friday, and
Monday 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00p.m.
Alameda One-Stop Center
555 Ralph Appezato Pkwy
Alameda, CA 94501
HOURS: Thursday and Monday
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Friday 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Islamic Center of Alameda
851 Santa Clara Ave
Alameda, CA 94501
HOURS: Thursday, Friday, Saturday,
Sunday and Monday 5:00 p.m.
to 8:00 p.m.
Alameda Boys & Girls Club
1900 Third St
Alameda, CA 94501
HOURS: Thursday and Monday
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
FAQ January 2015
United Indian Nations
1436 Clarke St
San Leandro, CA 94577
HOURS: Thursday, Friday, Monday
8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday 8:30 a.m. to 9:59 a.m.
AIDS Project of the East Bay
1320 Webster St
Oakland, CA 94612
HOURS: Thursday, Friday, Monday
9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
and 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Alternatives in Action at the
McClymonds Youth & Family Center
2607 Myrtle St
Oakland, CA 94607
HOURS: Thursday, Friday, Monday
10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Lions’ Center for the Blind
2115 Broadway
Oakland, CA 94612
HOURS: call 510-450-1580
Version: 8
Page 2 of 19
10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Oakland Point
1448 10th Street
Oakland, CA
HOURS: Thursday and Friday
9:00 a.m. to Noon
Lion Creek Crossings
6818 Lion Way
Oakland, CA
HOURS: Thursday, Monday
Alameda Family Services
350 Brush St., Portable 27
Alameda, CA
HOURS:
Thursday 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Q6: Can a smartphone be used to submit an application?
A6: Yes. Applicants can use any device with Internet access to complete the
application, including mobile phones and tablets.
Q7: Can an application be completed over the phone?
A7: No. Applicants can apply for free at any of the above application centers. If the
applicant is a person with a disability, volunteers will be present at these locations to
assist those who need help with the online process.
(See below for reasonable accommodations for persons with a disability.)
Q8: Can an application be completed at the Housing Authority Offices?
A8: No. Applications can only be provided and completed online or by advance written
request due to a disability. No applications will be provided or accepted at the Housing
Authority.
Q9: Can a paper application be completed?
A9: No. Applications can only be completed online. (See below for reasonable
accommodations for persons with a disability.)
Q10: Who can apply?
A10: Anyone can apply, but the Household must meet some eligibility criteria. One
eligibility criteria is determined based on the total annual gross income and family size.
The family's income may not exceed 50% of the median income which is determined by
family size. The limits are below. A second eligibility criteria is that at least one person
in the household must be a U.S. Citizen or national or fall within specified categories of
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 3 of 19
non-citizens who have eligible immigration status. Assistance will be pro-rated for any
individual that is not a citizen, national, or possess eligible immigration status.
Income Limits:
Household
Size
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Very Low
(50% of
Median)
$32,200
$36,800
$41,400
$46,000
$49,700
$53,400
$57,050
$60,750
Q11: Do I need a Social Security Number to apply?
A11: No, however, if any household members have an assigned Social Security
Number, it must be disclosed on the application. Applicants will be required to provide
Social Security Numbers or to certify that an applicant does not have a Social Security
Number. If a Social Security Number is not provided for the Head of Household, the
application status cannot be obtained electronically.
Q12: Do I need to be a citizen?
A12: No, but at least one person in the household must be a U.S. Citizen or national or
fall within specified categories of non-citizens who have eligible immigration status.
Assistance will be pro-rated for any individual who not a citizen, not a national, or does
not possess eligible immigration status. If your application is randomly selected for
placement on the Wait List, the household will be required to provide documentation of
Citizenship or Immigration Status prior to receiving assistance.
Q13: Does an applicant have to pay to apply?
A13: No! There is no cost to apply for housing and a credit report is not needed to
apply. Housing Authority of the City of Alameda officials caution applicants not to use
any other website or a search engine like Google to apply for the voucher Wait List. A
number of illegitimate websites charge fees to submit an application and may require
personal information such as social security numbers or debit/credit card information to
apply for a voucher. These websites falsely claim that this information is needed for a
credit check to submit an application for a housing voucher. This is a scam and could
lead to identity theft. Housing Authority officials advise that the best way to find the
correct application website is to type https://www.waitlistcheck.com/CA955 directly into
the website address bar usually located at the top left of the browser on the computer
screen.
Q14: What if the website is unavailable and applications cannot be submitted?
A14: The website will not accept applications until January 29, 2015 at 10:00 a.m., PST.
If you encounter this problem between January 29, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. PST and
February 3, 2015 at 9:59 a.m. PST, check the website address you are entering and
check the status of the internet connection to verify it is working. If the internet
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 4 of 19
connection is currently down, an application can be completed at one of the Application
Centers. If your internet connection is working and the website is still unavailable,
please e-mail [email protected]. Please note we are unable to respond to individual
e-mails but this information will help us fix issues that may arise for applicants in
general.
Q15: Can someone else sign up for me?
A15: Friends, family members, or volunteers can complete the application for an
applicant, however, the applicant must certify that all the information being provided is
true and complete.
Q16: If children are on the application does their income need to be included?
A16: Yes, all family members’ income must be disclosed. Listed income that does not
exceed the limits has no bearing on whether your application is randomly selected to
enter onto the Wait List. Failure to report income may result in the denial of the
application during the eligibility process. Please report all income and list all family
members that will be residing in the unit on the application.
Q17: How do I enter children into the online application?
A17: If the child is not a Foster Child, he/she would be coded as “Other Youth under
18.” If the child is a Foster Child, he/she would be coded as “Foster Child/Adult.”
Q18: If a person does not have income, do I need to list them under the income
section?
A18: No. The person needs to be listed under Household Members, but not under the
income section.
Q19: On the application, why can’t I check the box to receive e-mails?
A19: In order to check the box you must use the drop-down menu to select E-mail for
the “Other Phone Type” for the “Other Phone/E-mail” and type in your e-mail address.
Q20: Why can I not complete the citizenship information for my Foster Child/Adult
or Live-In Aide?
A20: Citizenship information is not required for individuals with these two relationship
types as these are “Household” members and not “Family” members.
Q21: I was on the website and started to complete my application. I lost the
internet connection in the middle. How do I go back in?
A21: You will need to start over from the beginning if you did not receive a confirmation
number.
Q22: What if I am having difficulty submitting my application?
A22: Check for red asterisks on your application. These may be hard to see for some
household members. Check to confirm the format of your date entries. For example,
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 5 of 19
different languages require different formats, such as mm/dd/yyyy or dd/mm/yyyy so
check the format of the required dates. If the Head of Household’s birthday does not
match at the top and bottom of the form, the form will not validate.
Q23: What type of assistance is available to individuals with disabilities to
complete an application?
A23: To ensure availability and access to the online system, the Housing Authority of
the City of Alameda has partnered with the organizations listed below. During the Wait
List opening these agencies will have workstations with internet access to allow
applicants who do not have access the option to apply. Additionally, volunteers will be
present at these locations to assist those who need help with the online process. (See
below for reasonable accommodations for persons with a disability.)
Mastick Senior Center
1155 Santa Clara Ave
Alameda, CA 94501
HOURS: Thursday, Friday, and
Monday
9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Alameda Boys & Girls Club
1900 Third St
Alameda, CA 94501
HOURS: Thursday and Monday
11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Alameda Point Collaborative
451 Stardust
Alameda, CA 94501
HOURS: Thursday, Friday, and
Monday 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 3:00p.m.
Alameda One-Stop Center
555 Ralph Appezato Pkwy
Alameda, CA 94501
HOURS: Thursday and Monday
10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Friday 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Islamic Center of Alameda
851 Santa Clara Ave
Alameda, CA 94501
HOURS: Thursday, Friday, Saturday,
Sunday and Monday 5:00 p.m.
to 8:00 p.m.
Ethiopian Community Cultural Center
6116 Telegraph Ave
Oakland, CA 94609
HOURS: Thursday and Monday
10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
United Indian Nations
1436 Clarke St
San Leandro, CA 94577
HOURS: Thursday, Friday, Monday
8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday 8:30 a.m. to 9:59 a.m.
AIDS Project of the East Bay
1320 Webster St
Oakland, CA 94612
HOURS: Thursday, Friday, Monday
9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
and 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Alternatives in Action at the
McClymonds Youth & Family Center
2607 Myrtle St
Oakland, CA 94607
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 6 of 19
HOURS: Thursday, Friday, Monday
10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Lions’ Center for the Blind
2115 Broadway
Oakland, CA 94612
HOURS: call 510-450-1580
Oakland Point
1448 10th Street
Oakland, CA
HOURS: Thursday and Friday
9:00 a.m. to Noon
Lion Creek Crossings
6818 Lion Way
Oakland, CA
HOURS: Thursday, Monday
10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Alameda Family Services
350 Brush St., Portable 27
Alameda, CA
HOURS:
Thursday 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Friday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Monday 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Q24: I need a reasonable accommodation due to a disability. What is your Housing
Authority’s policy on handling such requests?
A24: The outreach and application process will seek to remove barriers to application
for persons with disabilities. The above listed application centers have volunteers
available to assist with the application process, but if these centers do not meet your
needs, a request for accommodation must be received by the Housing Authority no later
than Saturday, January 31, 2015. A request that is postmarked by January 31, 2015
does not meet this requirement. The request must be submitted by email to
[email protected] or by US Mail to PO Box 3199, 1415 Webster St, Alameda, CA
94501. The request must be accompanied by documentation of the need for the
accommodation from a medical professional (medical details of the disability do not
need to be provided). A form to request a reasonable accommodation is available on
our website, but the request can be made without using our standard form.
Q25: Can I apply more than once?
A25: No, the system will not allow any person to be on more than one application.
Q26: When will I hear back?
A26: Applicants will receive a confirmation at the time of application that the application
was successfully submitted. It is anticipated that the random lottery results will be posted
online and on the IVR line (see IVR information below) three weeks after the close. The
Housing Authority will also notify both successful and unsuccessful applicants by e-mail
as soon as possible after the random selection.
Q27: How is the status of an application checked?
A27: When the Wait List closes on February 3, 2015 at 9:59 a.m., PST all of the
applications that were submitted will be placed in a random lottery for placement on the
Wait List. 750 applications will be placed on the Wait List. When the lottery is complete
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 7 of 19
the status information will be posted to www.waitlistcheck.com/CA955. The anticipated
status notice date is three weeks after the close. Simply proceed to the website, type in
the applicant’s year of birth and social security number to view the application status.
Do not call the Housing Authority. Applicants may also check their status over the
telephone by using the toll free IVR system. The phone number to call for this status
system is (844) 451-1756. When prompted enter the applicant’s social security number
and year of birth. A response of “Active” application means the application has been
placed on the Wait List. A response of “Inactive” application means the application was
not selected during the lottery process.
Q28: What if I move?
A28: If you move between the time your application was submitted and the random lottery
is complete in mid-February, you can check whether your application was selected for the
Wait List online or by the IVR line. If your application is placed on the Wait List, you are
required to notify the Housing Authority when your application information changes, such
as address, family composition or income. More information about updating your
information will be provided if you are selected for placement on the Wait List in a letter.
YOU CAN ONLY CHECK YOUR APPLICATION STATUS ONLINE OR BY THE IVR
LINE.
Q29: I have limited English language proficiency. What other language types
does your application process support?
A29: The online application is available in English and Spanish. The application can be
translated online using Google Translate. Information will be supplied on our website
www.alamedahsg.org in the following languages: English, Spanish, Tagalog/Filipino,
Chinese, and Vietnamese as required under the Limited English Proficiency
requirement set by HUD. This information is both online and at (888) 366-9510.
Q30: I’d like more information about your Housing Authority and housing
programs it provides.
A30: We have additional housing program information available on our website found at
www.alamedahsg.org. All other Wait Lists are closed.
Q31: How many people will be accepted on the waitlist?
A31: 750 applications will be placed on the Wait List by random lottery. The Housing
Authority reserves the right to increase this number as business needs dictate.
Q32: Why is there a lottery?
A32: Due to limited funding availability, applications will be selected and ordered using
a random lottery system. Not all applicants will be placed on the Wait List. By randomly
selecting the applications received for placement on the Wait Lists, the process is
equitable. The time and date of receipt of the application online has no bearing on
whether an application will be selected for the Wait List. There is no need or advantage
to applying immediately after the list opens, in fact, those who do may experience
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 8 of 19
slower response times or limited availability from the online system. Out of all the
applications received, 750 applications will be selected for placement on the Wait List.
Once these 750 applications are selected, claimed preferences will be applied, so the
applicants will be ordered by the aggregate number of preference points for which the
family is eligible and then by the lottery number randomly assigned to the applicant.
Q33: Will I get housing if I submit an application?
A33: Submission of an application does not guarantee placement on a Wait List,
eligibility, or an offer of housing.
Q34: What are my responsibilities?
A34: Each applicant must certify that all information provided is accurate, true and
correct to the applicant’s knowledge. Submission of an application by the deadline is
necessary for an opportunity to be selected for a position on the Wait List. For those
applicants randomly selected to be placed on the Wait List, responsibilities while on the
Wait List will be outlined at the time of notification of random selection. Applicants must
maintain current contact information with the Housing Authority.
Q35: I understand there is a toll-free line to call. What is the number?
A35: Because of the considerable demand for the housing program, a special [multilingual] information-line will be established to provide pre-recorded information about
the application process during the opening. The toll free number is (888) 366 - 9510.
This same information is available at www.alamedahsg.org. Applicants should not call
the main Housing Authority number for assistance with the online process.
Q36: Can I call or e-mail for more information?
A36: You may call the toll-free line at (888) 366-9510 for pre-recorded information or
visit the website at www.alamedahsg.org for additional information. Housing Authority
staff will respond to reasonable accommodation requests, but otherwise, will not be
returning calls or answering e-mails during this Wait List opening due to the large
volume of enquiries.
Q37: What preferences may a household apply for? Does claiming the preference
affect whether I am placed on the Wait List or not?
A37: The approved preferences for this Wait List are: FUP Graduates, Displaced,
Special Provisions, Terminated, Residency, Family, and Veteran. More information on
these preferences can be obtained on the Housing Authority’s website. Each applicant
must answer yes or no to the preference questions in order to be awarded applicable
preferences. Preferences will be applied to order the Wait List AFTER the lottery
selection and may affect the order in which applicants on the Wait List are contacted for
assistance. All preferences claimed will be verified.
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 9 of 19
Q38: Who is eligible for the preferences?
A38: Following is a description of each preference.
FUP GRADUATES:
Emancipated Youth assisted with Family Unification Program (FUP) funding
pursuant to FUP regulations dated 2009 or later who were given rental assistance
for a fixed term of eighteen months who are now aging out of that eighteen-month
period and referred by Alameda County Social Service for assistance under the
HCV Program.
DISPLACED:
Displaced Person(s). A person or persons whose dwelling in AHA’s
jurisdiction, as determined by AHA:

Has been destroyed, rendered uninhabitable or projected to be
uninhabitable for at least 180 days from the date of displacement as
a result of action or inaction by a landlord in response to a disaster
declared by the Federal Government or the State of California—
provided that the family was meeting all conditions of occupancy at
the time of its occurrence; or

Has been, or will be, rendered legally or functionally uninhabitable
for, at least, 180 days from the date of displacement as a result of
redevelopment activity or actions invoking the Uniform Relocation
Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970
(Uniform Relocation Act) and Section 104(d) of the Housing and
Community Development Act (HCD).
Displaced family. (A) Displaced person(s) that:

Has submitted an online or paper application to AHA for housing
assistance within 120 days after the date of displacement from a
dwelling located within AHA’s jurisdiction, or, in the case of a binding
written governmental notice, within 120 days before or after the
mandatory vacate date; and

As of the date that AHA selects the applicant for housing assistance
from its Wait List, contingent on AHA’s verification of the family’s
application information, is not living in standard, permanent
replacement housing.
Standard, permanent replacement housing is defined as housing
that is decent, safe, and sanitary according to Housing Quality
Standards and State and local housing code that is adequate for the
family size according to Housing Quality Standard and State and
local code, and that the family is occupying pursuant to a written or
oral lease or occupancy agreement.
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 10 of 19
Standard, permanent replacement housing does not include
transient facilities, hotels, motels, temporary shelters and, in case of
Victims of Domestic Violence, housing occupied by the individual
who engages in such violence. It does not include any individual
imprisoned or detained pursuant to State Law or an Act of Congress.
Shared housing with family or friends is not considered temporary
and is considered standard, permanent replacement housing.
SPECIAL PROVISIONS:

Applicants who are residents residing in units owned and/or managed by
the AHA and who are overhoused or underhoused and for whom there is
no appropriate unit in the complex where they live and only with the
approval of the Executive Director.

Family Unification Program (FUP)-eligible families and FUP-eligible
youths to which the AHA intends to issue FUP vouchers with available
funding provided by HUD for this purpose.
TERMINATED:
Section 8 participants who have been terminated by AHA due to overleasing
or lack of federal funding.
RESIDENCY:
Applicants who live or work in the City of Alameda, or applicant families
including at least one adult member who lives or works in the City of
Alameda. For homeless applicants, this preference will apply if the
applicant is living in a shelter or transitional housing located in the City of
Alameda or had been living in the City of Alameda prior to becoming
homeless.
FAMILY:
A family including a member 62 years of age or older or a person with
disabilities.
VETERAN:
A member of the military, a veteran who was discharged or released under
conditions other than dishonorable, or a surviving spouse (as defined by the
Department of Veteran Affairs.)
Q39: What if I am not eligible for the preference?
A39: Mark “No” for claiming that preference. You must answer each preference
question. You cannot leave them blank.
Q40: How do I submit a grievance for a decision made by the Housing Authority
regarding a Wait List application?
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 11 of 19
A40: A decision made by the Housing Authority may be grieved by submitting in writing
a request for a formal hearing, no later than 14 days from the date the decision is made
by the Authority. However, applicants should note that issues such as an incomplete
application, incorrect data entered by an applicant, missing the application deadline and
the outcome of the randomized lottery may not be eligible for an informal hearing. Do
not delay your submission of an application during the Wait List Opening
because of a grievance.
Q41: I have a fair housing/504 complaint. Where do I make that complaint?
A41: You may contact the 504 Coordinator for the Section 8 Program, Leslie Gleason,
at (510) 747-4300. Please note due to heavy volume, we are unlikely to be able to
respond to your request during the Wait List Opening. Do not delay your submission
of an application during the Wait List Opening because of a fair housing/504
complaint. You may also complete a discrimination form and submit it to HUD. Form
HUD-903.1 is available on the Housing Authority’s website at www.alamedahsg.org or
online from HUD’s webpage at
http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/program_offices/administration/hudclips.
Q42: Can I make changes to my application after I submit it?
A42: No. You cannot make any changes to the form after the application is submitted. If
you are selected in the final 750, we will address any issues with the form at that time
according to our Administrative Plan.
Q43: Why can I not input the birthdates of family members?
A43: It may be a browser issue. If you are using Internet Explorer 9 there can be an
issue with inputting the date. The solution is to use Internet Explorer 10 or higher or use
a different browser such as Firefox or Chrome.
Additional Policies
AFFIRMATIVE FAIR MARKETING
Reasonable Steps to Affirmatively Further Fair Housing by the Housing
Authority of the City of Alameda
The Housing Authority of the City of Alameda (AHA) has included as part of its
Administrative Plan for the Housing Choice Voucher program a plan for Affirmatively
Furthering Fair Housing for the Family Unification Program. The AHA also has a plan
in the Property Management Policy for the rental of its units. This plan is for the entire
agency in its efforts to promote Fair Housing and promote non-discriminatory
practices and operates in conjunction with the Administrative Plan and the Property
Management Policy.
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 12 of 19
The AHA will recruit applicants using a strategy designed to ensure equal access to
the wait list for all persons in any categories protected by federal, state, and local laws
governing discrimination. The AHA will administer its programs in accordance with
all applicable Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity laws, HUD’s Limited English
Proficiency (LEP) guidelines, the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and in such a manner as
to affirmatively further fair housing.
The AHA will work with persons with disabilities, public and private service and
resource providers, and property owners to address accessibility problems for
persons with disabilities.
The AHA will inform applicants and voucher participants on how to file a fair housing
complaint, and provide the toll-free number for the Housing Discrimination Hotline (1800-669-9777) as well as information on the appropriate local, state, and federal
organizations and agencies charged with investigating fair housing complaints. The
AHA will provide HUD’s “Are You a Victim of Discrimination?” brochure which includes
a Housing Discrimination Complaint form and contact information for the Department
of Housing and Urban Development’s California Office of Fair Housing upon request,
and will provide fair housing material in alternative formats for participants with
disabilities, if requested.
The AHA will operate in physical spaces which are accessible and comply with
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.
All AHA staff are informed about the importance of furthering fair housing and
providing an equal opportunity to all eligible families without regard to any category
protected by federal, state, or local laws governing discrimination. Fair Housing
Posters are posted throughout the AHA office, including the lobby and interview
rooms. Periodic training is provided to AHA staff in fair housing.
The AHA will facilitate effective communication with applicants, beneficiaries and
members of the public through practices which ensure that interested persons
(including those with impaired vision or hearing) can obtain information concerning
the Programs, including but not limited to utilization of TDD/TTY equipment, providing
key materials in languages appropriate to the client base, and taking reasonable steps
to provide or allow for interpreters as needed.
The AHA will offer and/or respond to requests for reasonable accommodations in
order to allow persons with disabilities to apply for and participate in the Programs
offered by the AHA.
Public Noticing and Outreach
All noticing and advertising will include prominent use of the Equal Housing
Opportunity logo and the ADA logo.
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 13 of 19
All announcements regarding the availability/acceptance of applications will be mailed
and/or e-mailed to a Marketing List of social services providers/community-based
organizations. The AHA will concentrate on contacting service providers/communitybased organizations in the City of Alameda, but will also do outreach throughout
Alameda County primarily through community-based organizations. In particular, where
the AHA has been unable to identify a city-wide community based organization for an
identified population, the AHA will contact the closest Alameda County organization
(e.g., Center for Independent Living Centers for special outreach to persons with
disabilities in Oakland and Berkeley and Native American Health Services in Oakland
for special outreach to American Indians). The written material will clearly state the
method for obtaining and submitting an application. The Marketing List may change
by the size and type of program for which applications are being accepted. The 2015
Housing Choice Voucher Wait List Opening version of the Marketing List is attached
as Exhibit A to this procedure.
The AHA will notify applicants and participants in writing at the time of application,
reexamination, and on notices of adverse action, of the applicant’s or participant’s
right to request an accommodation if one is needed due to a disability.
Accommodations and/or modifications will be provided to persons with disability as
appropriate upon request. Additional information on the types of reasonable
accommodations appropriate to the AHA programs can be found in the Administrative
Plan and Property Management Policy.
AHA will maintain records that these steps have been taken, and gauge their impact
from, the following:
a. Accessible Facilities: Addresses of facilities used together with notation that
they meet accessibility requirements.
b. Effective Communications: Telephone numbers and names of trained
operators of TDD/TTY equipment at the AHA and partner agency offices,
copies of key documents in appropriate languages, and copies of AHA policies
and notices regarding provision and/or allowance of interpreters together with
records of any such services requested by applicants or participants and the
response of the AHA or its partner agencies to such requests
c. Outreach: Copies of materials, notices, or other outreach materials together
with distribution lists of the same.
d. Reasonable Accommodations: Copies of standard language used to offer
formal or informal accommodations to applicants and participants; copies of all
written requests for reasonable accommodations as they relate to the program
together with written records of the AHA or partner agency’s responses for the
period required by program rules.
e. Fair Housing Information: Copies of information, materials, and referral
numbers relevant to fair housing laws and protections, agencies, and
discrimination complaint procedures (state and federal) which have been
provided to participants.
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 14 of 19
Exhibit A
MARKETING LIST For Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (Sample)









































ABODE Services
Afghan Coalition
Aids Minority Health Initiative
Aids Project of the East Bay
Ala Costa Center
Ala Costa Center
Alameda Architectural Preservation Society
Alameda Boys & Girls Club
Alameda Chamber of Commerce
Alameda Community Fund
Alameda Council Boy Scouts of America
Alameda County Board of Supervisors
Alameda County Geriatric Dental Care Program
Alameda County Health Care for the Homeless
Alameda County Housing & Community Development
Alameda County SSA
Alameda Development Corporation
Alameda Education Foundation
Alameda Family Services
Alameda Food Bank
Alameda Free Library Foundation
Alameda Friendly Visitors C/O Mastick Senior Center
Alameda Head Start C/O Alameda Family Services
Alameda Health Care Services Agency
Alameda Historical Society
Alameda Homeless Network
Alameda Hospital Foundation
Alameda Jewish Community
First Congregational Church of Alameda
Kiwanis Club of Alameda
Alameda Meals on Wheels
Temple Israel of Alameda
Alameda One Stop Career Center
Alameda Point Collaborative
Alameda PTA Council -- c/o Alameda Unified School District
Alameda Municipal Power
Alameda Race Violence Task Force
Rotary Club of Alameda
Alameda Unified School District
Alameda Welfare Council
Alternatives in Action
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 15 of 19












































American Center of Philippine Arts
American Indian Child Resource Center
Asian American Donor Program
Autism Answers
Autobody Fine Art, Inc.
Avalon Village
Bananas, Inc.
Bay Area Community Services
Bay Area Community Services – Four Bridges
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bay Area
Bike Walk Alameda
Buena Vista Community Association Inc.
Buena Vista United Methodist Church
Building Futures with Women and Children
Alameda Citizens Police Academy Alumni Assoc. c/o Alameda Police Dept.
Alameda Collaborative for Children, Youth, and their Families Coordinator
Alameda Services Collaborative Coordinator
California Association of Nonprofits
California Department of Rehabilitation
California Friday Night Live Partnership
Catholic Charities of the East Bay
Centers for Independent Living
Central American Refugee Community
Centro Legal de la Raza
Recreation & Park Director City of Alameda
Public Works Director City of Alameda
Fire Administrative Supervisor City of Alameda Fire Dept.
President of College of Alameda
Continuing Education Office CSU East Bay
Crab Cove Visitor Center
Deaf Counseling Advocacy & Referral Agency
East Bay Agency for Children
East Bay Community Foundation
East Bay Community Mediation
East Bay ROP c/o McClymonds Education Complex
East Bay Housing Organizations
East Bay Vietnamese Association
ECHO Housing
Eden Area One Stop Career Center
Eden I&R
Elder Care Alliance
Elders Village Incorporated
Encinal Yacht Club Junior and Adult Sailing Program
Ethiopian Community Center
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 16 of 19












































Family Emergency Shelter Coalition (FESCO)
Family Violence Law Center
Filipino Advocates for Justice
First Place Fund for Youth
Frank Bette Center for the Arts
Friends of Alameda Park and Recreation Foundation Incorporated
Friends of Alameda Theatre Inc. c/o Lars G. Hansson CPA
Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter
Friends of the Alameda Free Library
Alameda Community Fund
Girls Inc. of the Island City
Goodwill Job Training
Green Spaces for Life
Habitat for Humanity East Bay/Silicon Valley
Homeless Opportunity to Manage Economy
Housing Authority of the City of Alameda
Housing Authority of the City of Alameda
Housing Equality Law Project (HELP)
Housing Opportunities Make Economic Sense
Human Outreach Agency
Humane Society of Alameda
Islamic Center of Alameda
Island Alliance of the Arts
League of Women Voters of Alameda Inc.
Legal Assistance for Seniors
Lions Center for the Blind
Mastick Senior Center
Mental Health Association of Alameda County
Mills College
Mobile Mediations
Native American Health Center Inc.
New Traditions for Women Inc.
NID Housing Counseling Agency
Oasis for Kids
Operation Dignity
Organization of Alameda Asians c/o Buena Vista United Methodist Church
The Pacific Center, Berkeley
Park Street Business Assoc.
Pathways Hospice & Home Health
People Care 4 Day Care Inc.
Perforce Foundation
Redux Studios & Gallery Society of St. Vincent de Paul
Resources for Community Development
Renewed Hope Housing Advocates
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 17 of 19

















Rhythmix Cultural Works
Robert L. Lippert Foundation
Satellite Affordable Housing Associates
Senior Citizens, Inc. c/o Mastick Senior Center
Social Services Human Relations Board
Terra Green CDC
The Darryl Brown ALS Foundation for US Veterans Inc.
The San Francisco Foundation
Trinity Seniors c/o Trinity Lutheran Church
UC Cooperative Extension – Alameda County
United Indian Nations, Inc.
United Way – Bay Area
Unity Council
USS Hornet Museum
Volunteers of America
WACYPAA
YMCA of the East Bay
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION PROCESS
Reasonable Accommodations for those with a disability
The outreach and application process will seek to remove barriers to application for
persons with disabilities (as defined under the ADA) in the following ways
1. The application will be online and available through an internet connected device
including PCs, laptops, tablets and mobile devices, allowing people to apply
from their home, library and via their phone, with or without the assistance of a
family member or aide
2. Applications will be chosen through a random lottery to avoid a “first come first
served” bias
3. The waitlist will be open for a period of 6 consecutive days to allow for those who
need more time to apply or can only apply during non-work hours.
4. The Authority will complete a full affirmative fair marketing plan set out above to
ensure that disability (and other under-served) groups receive information.
5. Extensive marketing and outreach will be done throughout the community to
allow applicants time to prepare to apply.
6. The Housing Authority has established Application Centers via a number of its
partners where the public can apply and receive assistance
7. The Housing Authority will accommodate other reasonable requests that cannot
reasonably be met by the steps above under the following conditions:
a. A request for accommodation must be received by the Housing Authority
no later than Saturday, January 31, 2015. Postmarked by January 31,
2015 does not meet this requirement.
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 18 of 19
b. The request must be submitted by email to [email protected] or by US
Mail to PO Box 3199, 1415 Webster St, Alameda, CA 94501, and
accompanied with documentation of the need for the accommodation from
a medical professional (medical details of the disability do not need to be
provided)
c. A form to request a reasonable accommodation is available on our
website if the applicant choses to use the form, but the request can be
made without using our standard form.
Limited English Proficiency
The Housing Authority is required to provide additional assistance to speakers of the
following languages under the Limited English Proficiency requirement set by HUD:
 English
 Spanish
 Vietnamese
 Chinese
 Tagalog/Filipino
Information will be available on our website and sent to the Housing Authority’s
community partners in these languages. The Housing Authority reserves the right to
update these at any time. Please check our website, www.alamedahsg.org, for the
most current version.
In all instances, the English language version is the official version and will prevail in
the event of an error in translation or a conflict between documents.
FAQ January 2015
Version: 8
Page 19 of 19