Community Housing Services
The mission of CHS is to provide permanent solutions to housing as it relates to the problems of homelessness and near homelessness for those of low income and moderate income in Montgomery County, PA.

Gloria Echols, Executive Director, 215-362-5250, www.communityhs.org

2008 Community Housing Services (CHS) as it marks their 25th year of providing housing and assistance to the low and moderate income families in Montgomery County.

Community Housing Services is distinctive in that they offer two very special transitional housing programs in addition to a number of units of affordable rental units and a Lease Purchase Program. Currently, CHS is able to offer housing to a total of 43 families/individuals. Clients in the transitional programs are required to allocate a portion of their income for rental payments; other rents are subsidized, allowing for an affordable rental payment.

The Ezra House is the only transitional housing program in Montgomery County that is specifically for single men. Located in the heart of Lansdale is a multi-unit residence housing eight men. The two year program provides case management support for self-sufficiency and employment. Over the past ten years, Ezra has housed more than 60 men.

The second transitional housing program unique to CHS is their housing for victims of domestic violence. Community Housing Services manages 24 units of housing for women and children who have left an abusive situation and need a chance to get on their feet. Women are able to stay in the program up to two-years while receiving supportive services to assist them with moving on to permanent housing.

The Lease Purchase program of CHS was established in 1989. Since this time Community Housing Services has purchased 34properties and sold 30 to qualified families who, as a result, are able to experience the American dream of homeownership. Whereas housing is the primary mission of CHS, in 2007 they served more than 700 individuals and families offering Supportive Services including case management, housing counseling, appropriate information and referrals, rental assistance for security deposits, rental arrears, as well as access to two food pantries and a clothing closet. Through all of the above mentioned programs, it is estimated that CHS provided more than 6,500 units of service to residents of Montgomery County during 2007.

2008 will begin not only with a milestone for Community Housing Services, but also with a monumental challenge. CHS anticipates that this year will be the most difficult yet for families who are struggling to meet their expenses and stay in their homes. Donations for their Housing and Supportive Services program are all struggling to meet their expenses and stay in their homes. Donations for their Housing and Supportive Services program are always welcome and are used to assist with payments to landlords or utility companies for families who have fallen behind.

For more information on Community Housing Services, to volunteer or to make a donation, visit their website at: www.communityhs.org or contact their Executive Director, Gloria Echols at 215-362-5250.