Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about VOA Communities, our housing programs, eligibility requirements, and support services.
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Housing Questions
Answers to common questions about our housing communities, amenities, and living arrangements.
We are actively working to establish VOA Communities in Clay, Duval, and St. Johns counties in Northeast Florida. Our first communities are in development, and we'll announce specific locations as they become available. Join our waitlist to be notified when housing becomes available in your preferred county.
VOA Communities will offer a range of housing options including studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom apartments. All units are designed to be affordable and include modern amenities. Common areas and community spaces will be available for residents to connect and participate in programs.
Our communities will feature:
- Fully equipped kitchens and in-unit laundry
- Community spaces for events and gatherings
- Business centers and computer labs
- Outdoor recreational areas
- On-site support services offices
- Access to public transportation
Rent at VOA Communities is based on income and is typically set at 30% of a household's adjusted gross income, making it affordable for those who qualify. Specific rent amounts vary by unit size and location. We also accept housing vouchers where applicable.
Most utilities are included in the rent, though specific inclusions may vary by property. Typically, water, sewer, trash removal, and basic internet are included. Residents are generally responsible for electricity and optional services like premium internet or cable TV.
Eligibility Questions
Learn about who qualifies for housing at VOA Communities and what documentation is required.
To be eligible for VOA Communities housing, applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have exited foster care, been adopted, or been legally emancipated
- Meet income requirements (typically 30-60% of area median income)
- Pass background screening
- Demonstrate ability to maintain housing with appropriate supports
Applicants must provide proof of all income sources, which may include:
- Pay stubs (last 30-60 days)
- Social Security award letters
- Unemployment benefit statements
- Child support documentation
- Bank statements
- Tax returns (if self-employed)
We conduct standard background checks that include criminal history and sex offender registry checks. Certain criminal convictions may affect eligibility, particularly those related to violence, drugs, or property damage. Each application is reviewed individually, and we consider factors such as the nature of the offense, how long ago it occurred, and evidence of rehabilitation.
Yes, VOA Communities welcomes applicants with disabilities. Our properties are designed to be accessible, and we provide reasonable accommodations to ensure all residents can fully participate in our programs and services. We do not discriminate based on disability and comply with all fair housing laws.
Application Process Questions
Information about how to apply, required documentation, and what to expect after submitting an application.
The application process involves several steps:
- Join our waitlist to express interest and receive updates
- Complete pre-screening when housing becomes available
- Submit a formal application with required documentation
- Participate in an interview with our housing team
- Complete background checks
- Finalize lease paperwork and schedule move-in
Once you submit a complete application with all required documentation, our review process typically takes 10-14 business days. The timeline may vary depending on the volume of applications and the completeness of your submission. We recommend submitting all required documents together to avoid delays.
VOA Communities does not charge an application fee. We are committed to making our housing accessible and removing financial barriers to application. However, there may be a small administrative fee for background checks in some cases, which we can often waive for those with financial hardship.
Yes, we understand that many former foster youth may have limited or poor credit history. While we do review credit as part of the application process, we consider the full context of your financial situation. We also offer financial literacy programs to help residents build and improve their credit.
Support Services Questions
Learn about the programs and services available to VOA Communities residents.
VOA Communities offers comprehensive support services including:
- Employment training and job placement assistance
- Financial literacy and budgeting workshops
- Educational support and tutoring
- Mental health counseling and wellness programs
- Life skills training (cooking, cleaning, time management)
- Community building activities and social events
- Access to healthcare resources
While we strongly encourage participation in our support services to help residents achieve their goals, most services are optional. Some programs may have specific requirements for participation, but residents have flexibility in choosing which services best meet their needs. Case management meetings are typically required to ensure residents are receiving appropriate support.
Yes, each VOA Community will have on-site staff during business hours, including property management and support services personnel. After-hours emergency maintenance is available, and residents will have access to a 24/7 emergency contact number for urgent issues.
While we don't typically provide direct transportation services, we strategically locate our communities near public transportation routes. We also assist residents with accessing transportation resources, applying for transit passes, and connecting with carpool or ride-sharing options. Some employment training programs may include transportation support.
General Questions
Additional information about VOA Communities, our mission, and how to get involved.
VOA Communities is funded through a combination of sources including:
- Federal and state housing grants
- Private foundations
- Corporate partnerships
- Individual donations
- Rental income (once properties are operational)
As a division of Village of America Inc., we are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
There are several ways to support our mission:
- Make a financial donation (one-time or recurring)
- Volunteer your time and skills
- Donate household items or furniture
- Spread awareness in your community
- Advocate for affordable housing policies
- Explore corporate partnership opportunities
Visit our Support Our Mission page to learn more.
The best way to stay informed about new VOA Communities is to:
- Join our email newsletter
- Follow us on social media
- Check our website regularly for updates
- Join our housing waitlist to receive location-specific notifications
You can also contact us directly at housing@villageofamerica.org or (904) 297-8697.
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