"Thank you for the services you give us to live better in the city. Please continue to help us so we can all progress together. Thank you."
~Margarito, Public Housing resident

The Housing Authority of the City of Austin takes seriously its commitment to "break the poverty cycle by serving as a catalyst for our residents to become economically self-sufficient." HACA's Community Development Department is comprised of dedicated staff that provide HACA residents with the skills and services necessary to become free from public assistance. The department manages more than 30 active partnerships with local organizations to provide on-site services to HACA residents.

The Community Development staff is about people. The needs of HACA residents drive the initiatives of a department dedicated to ensure those living on HACA properties not only have a safe, decent place to call home but also have the resources and supportive services they need to become economically independent.

Following are key services provided by the Community Development Department:

The Family Self-Sufficiency Program serves residents to help them become financially independent.

Youth Services include recognition programs and supportive services to encourage children to stay in school.

Senior Services include classes, activities and health and safety programs.

Economic Development focuses on area partnerships established to better serve our residents in their self-sufficiency endeavors.

Scholarships are awarded annually to residents through the HACA/SHCC Scholarship Fund.

Resident Watch and Safety Programs allow residents to become unified and organized for safer, closer communities.

Family Self-Sufficiency specialists not only promote the above services but also provide direct support for residents as they strive to become economically independent.