Local Preferences

Our Housing Authority has also established several local preferences, which affect an applicant’s position on our Waiting List. To qualify for a preference, one of the following must apply:

First Preference - Victims of Domestic Violence
The Franklin County Housing Authority will offer a local preference to families that have been subjected to or victimized by a member of the family or household within the past 6 months. The Franklin County Housing Authority will require evidence that the family has been displaced as a result of fleeing violence in the home. Families are also eligible for this preference if there is proof that the family is currently living in a situation where they are being subjected to or victimized by violence in the home.

Second Preference - Homeless Preference
Persons who are homeless: defined as lacking a fixed, regular, adequate nighttime residence, and have a primary nighttime residence that is supervised by a public or private shelter. Homeless family does not include any individual imprisoned or detained pursuant to State Law or an Act of Congress.

Homeless families may maintain their place on the waiting list while completing a transitional housing program.

Third Preference - Working Preference
Familes with at least one adult who is employed and has been employed for 12 consecutive months or who are active participants in accredited educational and training programs designed to prepare the individual for the job market. This preference is automatically extended to elderly families or families whose head or spouse is receiving income based on their inability to work.

Graduates of transitional housing programs for homeless/substance abusers/victims of domestic abuse also qualify for this preference.

After applications are received and reviewed, eligible applicants are placed on our Section 8 Waiting List by date and time of application.