Worcester Housing Authority – Worcester, MA

Affordable Housing and Community Development

The Worcester Housing Authority (WHA) is the largest provider of affordable housing in Worcester County and the second largest in New England. Headquartered at 630 Plantation Street, this quasi-public agency is committed to providing safe, decent, and affordable housing opportunities for low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. The WHA operates under both state and federal mandates, managing thousands of public housing units and administering the federal Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program. Beyond simply providing shelter, the WHA is a leader in community services, offering robust programs designed to help residents achieve economic self-sufficiency, improve their education, and break the cycle of poverty.

Housing Programs

The WHA offers a variety of housing options tailored to the diverse needs of the Worcester community:

• Public Housing: The agency manages over 3,000 apartments across the city, including family developments like Great Brook Valley and elderly/disabled high-rises such as Elm Park Tower.
• Section 8 Vouchers: The WHA administers over 4,000 federal vouchers, allowing eligible families to rent housing in the private market with rental assistance.
• Emergency Housing: While not a direct shelter, the WHA works with local agencies to prioritize homeless veterans and victims of domestic violence for available units.

Resident Services and Self-Sufficiency

The WHA distinguishes itself with its comprehensive A Better Life (ABL) program. This initiative is designed to support able-bodied residents in moving toward financial independence. Services include:

• Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS): A structured program where residents gain escrow savings as their earned income increases.
• Employment Training: On-site partnerships provide job training, GED preparation, and English as a Second Language (ESL) classes.
• Youth Programs: After-school activities, summer jobs, and scholarship opportunities are available to children living in WHA properties.

Visiting and Operations

The central office on Plantation Street is the hub for admissions, leasing, and administration. Visitors should note that the office has specific operating hours and is closed to the public on Fridays. Applicants for housing are encouraged to apply online, though kiosks are available in the lobby. Security screening is standard, and valid identification is required for all adult visitors. The facility provides handicap parking and is fully wheelchair accessible. Due to the high volume of clients, appointments are strongly recommended for meetings with case managers, although the admissions department handles walk-in inquiries during open hours.