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Issue 32 October 2014 PHA Breaks Ground on Oakdale Street

INDEX Message from the CEO ...... 2 Demolition of Queen Lane High Rise...... 2 HUD Awards $30 Million Grant to Renew Norris Homes Area...... 3 PHA Board Approves Early Payoff of Bonds...... 3 Historic Partnership Formed Between PHA and Unions...... 3 PHA Offers New Rental Option for Scattered Sites...... 3 PHA Partners With Project HOME at New Development...... 4 ACOP and Admin Plan Modified...... 4 Scattered Sites Offices Relocate...... 4 Board Okays New Agreements with Union Employees...... 5 PHA Completes Renovation of Market-Rate Units...... 5 PHA President and CEO Kelvin A. Jeremiah and City Council President Darrell Clarke (center) led the festivities as the agency formally broke ground for the construction of the Oakdale Street Apartments PHA President Speaks Out Against on the 2800 block of West Oakdale Street. The new development was long sought by Clarke, whose district covers the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood. The 12-unit development will be built across the Waste, Fraud, and Abuse...... 6 street from the Widener Library. HCV Clients Seek Higher Opportunity...... 6 PHA’s LEED Gold Development The Philadelphia Housing Authority feature conventional construction with for the Strawberry Mansion community, efficient housing opportunities for the Honored Again...... 6 (PHA) will begin plans to convert a a combination of brick and hard board which represents an investment of over community. This wonderful investment Quarterly Board Resolution longtime vacant piece of land at the panel systems on the exterior, with grass $25 million by PHA. We hope that our shows that Strawberry Mansion is Updates...... 7 northern edge of the Strawberry Mansion PHAPD and Resident Councils field rear yards. investment in Strawberry Mansion will moving in the right direction.” Host Basketball Tournament.....8 neighborhood to productive use. The encourage others to take a look at this “These new PHA energy-efficient Oakdale Street Apartments is the first PHA and Philly Seeds Organize agency, joined by elected officials, formally neighborhood and invest here in quality, Back to School Jam...... 9 homes, and the 37 affordable homes the of three PHA developments planned for broke ground on Tuesday, August 12 for affordable housing, whether through new Residents Elect Resident City has funded in Strawberry Mansion in the Strawberry Mansion neighborhood. the construction of the Oakdale Street construction or renewal.” Commissioners...... 10 recent years, are a testament to our shared When all of the developments are Philly Seeds Awards Scholarships Apartments on the 2800 block of West commitment to this neighborhood,” said The new development was something complete, 100 new housing units will to PHA Residents...... 10 Oakdale Street. Bartram Village Resident Mayor Michael A. Nutter. “Transforming long sought by City Council President have been added to the neighborhood. Council Joins Community...... 11 The 12-unit development will be built Darrell Clarke whose district covers this vacant property into affordable housing Construction of the Oakdale Street World Changers Team across the street from the Widener Library. neighborhood and who is promoting an with PHA Again...... 11 will add value to the area. Our combined Apartments will create 20 jobs and seven The new development will feature 8 two- investments are key steps in strengthening increase in various forms of affordable Female Vet Urges Others of them will be Section 3 hires. Section 3 to Make a Leap of Faith bedroom townhouses and 4 one-bedroom housing throughout the City. and revitalizing this community.” helps to ensure economic opportunities to Homeownership...... 12 duplex units ranging from just over 700 to “Whenever PHA can brighten a “The planning that went into the are given to low and very low-income PHA Celebrates National more than 1,200 square feet. The Oakdale Homeownership Month...... 12 neighborhood with modern, efficient Oakdale Street Apartments was a long and persons, particularly to recipients of Street Apartments will be sustainable units FSS Program Helping Residents housing, it’s a plus for the City,” said PHA collaborative process,” Council President government assistance housing. PHA Reach Success...... 14 with low energy features such as Energy President and CEO Kelvin A. Jeremiah. Clarke said. “I’m so pleased this lot will expects to complete construction of the PHAPD Celebrates Fraternal Order Star-rated appliances and mechanical of Housing Police Awards...... 15 “This is the first of three projects planned soon be occupied with new, energy- new development next March with a equipment, and compact fluorescent Summer Food Service total investment of $4.55 million. Program...... 15 bulbs throughout. All buildings will

www.pha.phila.gov 2 Message from the CEO

PHA: A Strong Team

s the summer comes to a close, and PHA gears up for the building neighborhoods of choice where families can thrive. I’d like to thank Queen Lane Resident winter holidays, it is a reminder that it takes a village to run Council President Corliss Gray, Councilwoman Cindy Bass, and the Development Department for A a housing authority. I understand to accomplish anything their excellent work and support on Queen Lane. at PHA, it is a process. Things don’t just happen. It takes technology, PHA also continues to demonstrate that we are good neighbors and partners. A great example supplies, contracts, distribution, finance, the skilled workforce on of this is the coordination with other city agencies on the Choice Neighborhood Implementation the front line, and the partnership and collaboration of residents and Grant, as well as the continued planning and activity in the Blumberg/Sharswood community. Resident Councils. Every part of the process is essential for the success of this agency. This is what makes PHA a strong team that works This should reinforce to all of us that the new values and standards that have been put in place together to serve nearly 80,000 residents daily. ARE taking root. There have been several agency successes over the past months. Welcome to the new PHA! I can’t name them all, but some of them include the scattered site office consolidation that streamlined operations, and the Rezzcard implementation that now allows scattered sites Sincerely, residents to pay their rent electronically online, by phone, and at cash checking locations. The “Back to School Jam” was a huge hit and I would like to thank CORD for ensuring that over 3,000 young residents were prepared for the school year ahead. PHAPD, along with Resident Councils from Harrison Plaza, Cambridge Plaza, Spring Garden Apartments, and Richard Allen Homes, held the first annual Unity Basketball Tournament and Kelvin A. Jeremiah Community Health Fair to promote unity and nonviolence among the youth. President & CEO The implosion of the Queen Lane high-rise took place on September 13. I am proud to say that, after a nearly 4-year long process, we are moving in the right direction and bringing quality, affordable housing to those in need. We are not merely building a new development, we are Demolition of Queen Lane High Rise On Saturday, Sept. 13, the neighborhood will improve with new, Philadelphia Housing Authority modern affordable housing that fits in imploded the 16-story Queen Lane with the existing housing designs.” high-rise to make way for a new It took only seconds to bring development. The redevelopment of down almost 60 years of history the Queen Lane site has been three in the southwest Germantown years in the making. PHA’s initial neighborhood. PHA will replace the development plans were postponed high-rise with a 55-unit development in 2011 after concerns were raised by that will be a mix of low-rise flats, local residents about a Potter’s Field walkups, and townhouses. dating back to the 1700s. A substantial amount of green space After the completion of an will be maintained as a historic site archaeological dig and extensive because of the Potter’s Field that was community engagement, PHA signed once located on that block. The former a Programmatic Agreement with Potter’s Field will be maintained as the U.S. Department of Housing a historic, open space and receive a and Urban Development, the State special marker to permanently pay Historic Preservation Office, the tribute to those who were laid to rest Advisory Council on Historic there. Preservation, and a number of other neighborhood groups in February. “Having been a part of this project The agreement governs the way the since its inception and having site will be redeveloped in regards to witnessed all of the controversies over the Potter’s Field as identified through the years, I am today proud of the archaeological findings. way the partners and the community ultimately came together to make “We are relieved to conclude a long this new development a reality,” said journey that began over three years Michael Johns, PHA Senior Executive ago,” said PHA President and CEO Vice President of Capital Projects. The long-awaited implosion of the Queen Lane high-rise took place on Saturday, September 13. For over three years, local residents, Kelvin A. Jeremiah. “We know the (continued on page 5) community leaders and partners joined PHA to collaborate efforts to ensure the new development would not only provide housing for those in need and spark economic growth within the neighborhood, but also honor the past by maintaining the former Potter’s Field as a historic open space.

A Community Newspaper for and about Residents Housing News 3 HUD Awards $30 Million Grant PHA Board Approves to Renew Norris Homes Area Early Payoff of Bonds

On Monday, June 30, the U.S. Regional Rail station at Temple University. Disinvestment and population loss Department of Housing and Urban over a 50-year period have left the to Free Up Millions Asociación Puertorriqueños en Development (HUD) awarded PHA neighborhood scattered with blighted Marcha (APM), the Local Initiatives and the City of Philadelphia a $30 properties and vacant lots that have Support Corporation (LISC), Temple for Future Investment million Choice Neighborhoods increased crime and decreased value. University, the Philadelphia School Implementation Grant to revitalize The schools are low-performing District, United Way, Philadelphia On July 17, The Philadelphia based on the payments that we make on North-Central Philadelphia. and the Germantown Avenue retail Youth Network, Pennsylvania Housing Authority Board of these bonds,” said PHA President and corridor is threatened by vacancies and “This grant is one of the most Horticultural Society, and Temple Commissioners approved the early CEO Kelvin A. Jeremiah. “By repaying underutilized properties. significant investments in affordable Health Systems are also key partners in repayment of revenue bonds totaling off these bonds early, PHA will not housing by the federal government the proposed transformation plan. “Previous strategic City investments over $24 million. The bonds were only be saving over $4 million, but in Philadelphia in recent years,” said have improved sections of the issued in 2002 and 2003 for the will have more capital funds available Donna Richardson, President Kelvin A. Jeremiah, PHA President and neighborhood,” said Deborah development of PHA’s Greater Grays to allocate towards maintenance and of the Norris Apartments Resident CEO. “I am especially grateful to HUD McColloch, Director of the City’s Ferry Estates in South Philadelphia. other capital needs.” Council, said she was glad to get news Secretary Shaun Donovan, Senator Office of Housing and Community of the grant, but will be watching to The bonds were issued by The Series B and C bonds would Bob Casey, Mayor Michael Nutter, Development. “With this grant and the make sure that current residents are the Philadelphia Redevelopment have ordinarily matured in December Council President Darrell Clarke and funding it will leverage, our successes able to return to the neighborhood. Authority when interest rates were 2021 and December 2017, respectively. our City and Local partners for their to date will be expanded to include the higher and could be repaid early with Two other bond issues, Series A and steadfast support. This would have not The North Central Transformation entire community.” no penalty or premium. PHA’s financial Series D made in 2002 and 2003, been possible without the planning, Plan includes the development of The neighborhood revitalization advisor, Public Financial Management, remain outstanding with a balance of dedication and investment in time and 297 housing units, with a mix of plan is resident-driven. A series recommended the early repayment over $55 million. resources from our great partners.” affordable and market-rate, rental and of community meetings identified of the bonds before December 1 to homeownership units. As part of this The early repayment of the bonds The grant will help to provide the resident priorities including more job reduce the agency’s interest expenses. plan, all 147 Norris Apartments low- will free up over $28 million between leverage necessary to obtain $125 training and opportunities, reduced The money saved on interest to bond rise units will be rebuilt as energy- 2014-2021 for other capital needs at million in other funds toward building crime and increased neighborhood holders will go toward operations and efficient, affordable housing, to ensure the agency. That total includes the a stronger, safer, more vibrant, and safety, elimination of trash-strewn capital projects. that low-income families are able to principal of $24.3 million plus almost sustainable community in the one- vacant land, and high-quality remain in the neighborhood. “Every year our capital fund $4.3 million in interest. half square mile area surrounding the educational resources. contribution is reduced proportionally

Historic Partnership Formed PHA Offers New Rental Between PHA and Unions Payment Option for PHA has reached a precedent-setting Building and Construction Trades Agreement strategy, the Philadelphia agreement with the Building and Council,” said Kelvin A. Jeremiah, PHA Housing Authority has taken a significant Scattered Sites Residents Construction Trades Council (BCTC) President and CEO. “The agreement is step toward increasing its capacity to that will change the way the agency beneficial on many levels for PHA— not build affordable housing in this city at In July, PHA launched Rezzcard, a new payment centers include supermarkets obtains labor for long-term, major only will the reduction in labor costs affordable costs,” Mayor Nutter said. “As rental payment option for scattered sites and check cashing places. construction projects. The agreement aid PHA in its goal to provide 6,000 the PHA Board noted in the resolution it residents. Rezzcard allows residents ensures that the agency can develop affordable housing units in five years, adopted, our Administration initiated to pay their PHA balance in cash, credit/ Residents are also able to pay more affordable housing as well as but the agreement will also help secure a PLA process in 2011, which debit card, or electronic check. It is a online at www.rezzcard.com or by resident employment, even as federal more jobs for PHA residents, women, ensures greater employee diversity funding grows tighter. and minorities.” at work sites, along with timely com- convenient alternative to mailing or calling 1(800) 342-7374. Rezzcard pletion and cost management of major making payments at the management allows you to check your balance and The Project Labor Agreement (PLA) Jeremiah also commended the public works projects.” office, which residents can still do if review your most recent Rezzcard with the construction labor unions PHA Board of Commissioners for its they choose. payments online at any time. contains “affordable housing rates,” support and thanked May- The agreement runs five years resulting in a significant reduc- or Michael A. Nutter, City and covers construction and major Rezzcards were mailed to scattered There is a $2.00 fee for each cash tion in costs. Essentially, PHA and Council President Darrell L. rehabilitation projects of over site residents in late June. There is no transaction and a $3.00 fee for BCTC have agreed to a 20 percent Clarke, and the unions for working $5 million. It contains the following registration or activation needed and Electronic Check transactions. Credit/ reduction in construction wages cooperatively and collaboratively with affirmative employment requirements: there is no personal information on Debit Card transaction fees start and benefits, which will enable PHA the agency. the cards. To use it, bring your card to at $4.95. to build six family homes for the • At least 25 percent of all employees any Rezzcard payment center. Show cost of five. The agreement also re- Both President Barack Obama and covered by this agreement shall the clerk your Rezzcard, tell them the If the pilot program with scattered quires the employment of PHA Mayor Nutter have signed executive be PHA residents amount you are paying, give them the sites residents is successful, PHA will residents, including women, and orders encouraging the use of PLAs in • At least 20 percent of all employees cash, and you will get a receipt. consider expanding Rezzcard to includes work rules that promote connection with large-scale projects covered by the agreement shall residents who live in conventional efficiencies and the timely completion to promote economy and efficien- be women of construction projects. cy while maintaining high standards • At least 20 percent of all employees Rezzcard is accepted at over 200 or tax credit sites. If you are a scattered of construction. covered by the agreement shall locations in the Philadelphia area, sites resident and have questions “This is an historic agreement that has be minorities many which are open late and on the about rezzcard, please speak to your been reached between PHA and the “By adopting a Project Labor (continued on page 12) weekends. Some examples of Rezzcard property manager.

www.pha.phila.gov 4 Housing News PHA Partners With Project HOME ACOP and Admin at New Development Plan Modified

On June 17, the PHA Board of • Prohibition against termination of Commissioners approved the recent victims of domestic abuse updates to the Admissions and Continued Occupancy Policy (ACOP) • Increased privacy protection and the Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV) Administrative Plan. • Victim documentation and submission Residents were given a 30 day comment period from April 14 through Additionally, language was added May 14 to submit recommendations to the ACOP pertaining to clients who and offer input. The public was also require reasonable accommodations invited to voice their opinions about due to mental impairments, which is the proposed changes on May 7 at the also included in PHA’s Transfer Policy. John F. Street Center. ACOP Amendments include: PHA updated both documents to adhere to recent Department of Justice • Demonstration of the relationship (DOJ) and Office of Violence Against between disability and the need for Women (OVM) mandates. a transfer

Additions to the HCV Administrative • Verification of a particular area Plan include: that has been verified to alleviate a household member’s mental or •Extended protection to specified psychological impairment groups under the Violence Against PHA partnered with Project HOME for the new JBJ Soul Homes at 1415 Fairmount Avenue in the Francisville neighborhood of Philadelphia. Women Act (VAWA) • Acceptance of any written or The agency has committed 15 project-based vouchers. PHA President and CEO Kelvin A. Jeremiah (back, right of center) took part in the verbal communication as a valid grand opening on April 22 along with singer Jon Bon Jovi, public officials, and community partners. • Admission of qualifying applicants request to transfer, as long as the PHA President and CEO Kelvin cutting event. “I’d also like to recognize voucher program. regardless of their experiences communication meets the criteria A. Jeremiah was among the honored Jon Bon Jovi and the Middleton involving domestic violence, dating outlined in the policy under “Project HOME has been and guests on April 22 as Project HOME family whose generosity made this violence, stalking, or sexual abuse “Request for an Accommodation” continues to be one of our favorite opened its newest development, JBJ complex possible and let’s not forget contractors on that front,” he stated. Soul Homes at 1415 Fairmount Avenue our partners at PHFA, at the city, “Another way to say it is that we intend in the city’s Francisville neighborhood. and HUD.” Scattered Sites to be a good neighbor and a good JBJ Soul Homes is named for singer Jeremiah also said that the agency partner. Project HOME continues to Jon Bon Jovi, whose foundation made has made it a management priority to illuminate that. They understand more Offices Relocate a multimillion dollar contribution expand public/private partnerships, than most why it’s a good thing to be in toward funding the 55-unit building including philanthropic ones, and service to others.” PHA’s scattered sites management • 909 - Strawberry Mansion and that also contains retail and to allocate resources through the offices moved in July. The move will 910 - Oxford Jefferson moved commercial office space. allow PHA to create more housing to 3226 McMichael Street, units by converting the former office Philadelphia PA 19129. PHA contributed Housing Choice spaces and putting them back (online). Vouchers worth $2.1 million to Affected residents were notified of the On Friday, July 11, management offices subsidize rents for 15 units. changes by mail in June. closed and moved. These new offices Sister Mary Scullion, the co-founder opened on Monday, July 14. of Project HOME, thanked Jeremiah On Monday, July 7, the following for the agency’s participation and management offices closed and moved. • 903 - Kingsessing moved to told those gathered at the event that The new offices opened on Tuesday, Wilson Park, 2500 Jackson Street, nine young people had moved into July 8. Philadelphia, PA 19145 apartments at the new development because of PHA’s commitment • 901 - Haddington/Overbrook and • 906 - Francisville moved to Spring of vouchers. 902-Mantua moved to West Garden Apartments, 715 Brandywine Park Apartments, 4445 Holden Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123. “If it wasn’t for Kelvin’s vision, Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104 commitment, and leadership, we • 904 – Germantown/Hunting Park would not be able to serve youth here • 905 - Fairhill Square and remains at Abbottsford Homes, at JBJ. That is why we’re so incredibly 907 - Ludlow moved to Fairhill 3226 McMichael Street. grateful for Kelvin, his integrity, and Apartments, 2411 N. 11th Street, hardworking commitment to make Philadelphia, PA 19133 All site phone numbers remain the not only this, but many other projects PHA President and CEO Kelvin Jeremiah was among the speakers as Project HOME opened its newest affordable development in the city’s Francisville neighborhood. He said that the same. Residents should continue a reality,” she said. agency, which provided voucher subsidies for 15 units, has a management priority to expand • 908 - Susquehanna moved to to report maintenance issues by calling “PHA is truly honored to partner public/private partnerships. Abbottsford Homes, 3226 McMichael the PHA Customer Response Center with Project HOME and with Sister Shown here (from left) are Reverend Herbert Lusk of People for People, Sister Mary Scullion, Street, Philadelphia, PA 19129 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at Mary as we work toward reducing and singer Jon Bon Jovi, and Jon Dawson McConnon. Scullion and McConnon are co-founders (215) 684-8920. If you have any eventually eliminating homelessness of Project HOME, while Lusk and Bon Jovi made significant financial contributions to the questions, please speak to your in the city,” Jeremiah said at the ribbon new development. property manager.

A Community Newspaper for and about Residents Housing News 5 Board Okays New Agreements with Union Employees PHA’s Board of Commissioners has I thank our union leadership for • In years 1-3, members will pay medical PPO premiums. The total • The agency and the police union approved new, 5-year contracts with working collaboratively with PHA to 4 percent toward medical HMO cost of HMO premiums increase have agreed that there will be no employees represented by four labor reach these agreements.” premiums and 20 percent toward in years 4 and 5, to seven percent retroactive salary adjustments to unions, covering almost half of PHA’s medical PPO premiums. The total and ten percent respectively. this structure. The following are highlights employees. The agreements provide cost of HMO premiums increase Under the previous contract, of each of the new agreements: for general wage increases, changes in years 4 and 5, to seven percent and employees paid four percent • The agreement does call for wage in employee health care contribution 10 percent respectively. Under the toward medical premiums 1. Building and Construction Trades increases of two percent in 2016, rates, and certain work rule changes. previous contract, employees paid Council (BCTC): BCTC currently 3. Fraternal Order of Housing Police 2017, and 2018. 4 percent toward medical premiums. “PHA has established an ambitious has 642 employees who provide (FOHP): FOHP represents 57 development agenda in which the various routine maintenance work. employees of the Philadelphia Housing 4. Service Employees International 2. AFSCME, District Council 33: agency plans to spend more than $500 PHA will also enter in a provisional Authority Police Department. The Union (SEIU), Local 32BJ: SEIU Highlights of the new agreement, million on new construction and major agreement with BCTC for temporary new agreement includes the following: represents elevator mechanics at the which covers 57 employees housing renovation over the next five construction-related work. Highlights Philadelphia Housing Authority. providing clerical and warehouse years. These contracts will stabilize the of the new agreement include the • Contract retroactive to services, include the following: Authority’s workforce as we maintain following: April 1 of this year • Contract is retroactive to April our existing properties and build more • $1.00/per hour increase per year • The agreement calls for an adjusted • Base wage rate to be increase to affordable housing,” said Kelvin A. • $1.00/per hour increase per year for years 1-5 base salary structure ranging from $40 per hour with wage increased Jeremiah, PHA President and CEO. for years 1-3 $45,000 to $58,195 annually. of $1 an hour each year through “PHA wants to remain an employer • In years 1-3, members will pay April 1, 2018. of choice in the City and these new • $1.50/per hour increase per year 4 percent toward medical HMO • New hires with 10 years of agreements help us to keep that status. for years 4-5 premiums and 20 percent toward experience as a full time officer Work rule changes in all of the will start at just over $50,000 a year. contracts are aligned with providing • PHAPD officers who have risen to employees with a safe and productive PHA Completes Renovation of the rank of corporal will have a environment that is focused on pro- new base salary structure ranging viding services to the residents PHA Market-Rate Units at Queen’s Row from $54,801 to $63,502 annually. proudly serves every day. • Those who have advanced to the wish to live at these units will have properties will be affordable housing, rank of detective now have an to meet an income requirement to be but we have quite a few parcels of annual base salary structure of eligible, earning between 60 and 80 properties within North-Central $60,862 to $76,599. percent of Area Median Income. While Philadelphia, Mantua, Fairmount, and PHA owns the property, marketing, Francisville that we may develop to be management, and other issues affordable or market-rate properties.” are coordinated through the In the case of Queen’s Row, Main Philadelphia Housing Authority Line Investors Group will manage Demolition of Development Corporation (PHADC). the apartments and will receive a Keith J. Richardson, Managing percentage of the rent, the rest will be Queen Lane High Rise Director of PHADC, estimated that divided between PHA and PHADC. (continued from page 2) the rental of the renewed units will The other 24 units at Queen’s Row generate $55,000 a year. He said this will be renovated to be traditional “We’ve designed the site so that we and provided a dislocation allowance development is a significant step public housing. Richardson believes respect and remember the past, when of a hundred dollars. forward by the housing authority and that this development sets the stage for a large part of the land was used as its development company. Corliss Gray, President of the Queen better things to come. the final resting place of African “I think it’s a template for PHADC Lane Resident Council, expressed a “Reductions in federal Americans, and other less fortunate as we look to develop the properties sense of joy that the new development appropriations make this type of people in Germantown. The design of that we’ll be managing in the near is moving forward. She’s been in the private/public partnership necessary,” the new development will also fit in future,” he said. “We know some of our neighborhood for 50 years and believes PHA has completed the renovation of five he said. with the neighborhood and improve market-rate affordable units at the Queen’s the quality of life there will improve. the quality of life and property values.” Row complex in Germantown. While PHA Still, the moment is bittersweet. owns the property, marketing, management, Former residents of the Queen Lane and other issues are coordinated through “I already do miss my friends [who the Philadelphia Housing Authority Apartments high-rise moved away long lived in the high-rise],” she said. “There Development Corporation. ago. Relocation of residents began on are a lot of good people that came out August 26, 2011 and was completed on PHA has taken a major step toward of that building. They all can’t come November 23, 2011. PHA paid for the generating more non-federal revenue back.” for itself with the renovation of five cost of the move, the security deposit, market-rate units at the Queen’s and one month’s rent for residents With the demolition of Queen Row complex in Germantown. The moving from conventional housing Lane, PHA will have 8 high-rise sites rehab of those units located near the to the Housing Choice Voucher remaining, with 16 high-rise buildings Queen Lane Regional Rail Station was (Section 8) program. The agency also containing 1,880 units. completed in April. reimbursed residents for reconnection The units are classified as affordable, of their telephone and cable TV service market-rate and will be marketed and managed by Main Line Investors The new, market-rate affordable units at Queen’s Row in Germantown are spacious, with Group for the agency. People who plenty of bedroom and closet space, and feature modern kitchen amenities. The rehabilitation of Queen’s Row is a major step by PHA toward generating more non-federal revenue.

www.pha.phila.gov 6 Housing News PHA President Speaks Out Against Waste, Fraud, and Abuse On May 22, PHA President Other witnesses included Cecil and CEO, Kelvin A. Jeremiah, House, General Manager of the New testified before the U.S. House of York City Housing Authority and the Representatives’ Committee on Honorable David Montoya, Inspector Oversight & Government Reform’s General for the U.S. Department of Subcommittee on Government Housing and Urban Development Operations in Washington, D.C. He (HUD). was invited to provide insight and Jeremiah spoke about PHA’s commentary on waste, fraud, abuse, successes in curtailing waste, fraud, and mismanagement in public housing and abuse through the implementation authorities. of its Office of Audit and Compliance “It was a high honor for me to (OAC). Since OAC’s creation, PHA appear before the House Oversight has recouped more than $1.5 million subcommittee to discuss fraud, between restitution, repayment waste, mismanagement, and Federal agreements, and various fraud appropriations regarding affordable investigations. housing. I was especially delighted PHA has also saved approximately to talk about the new PHA and all the $5.4 million from terminations, changes we’ve implemented that are resignations, and recaptured pension now taking root,” said Jeremiah. “I’d contributions that would have like to thank Chairman John Mica and otherwise been paid to convicted Ranking Member Gerald Connolly former employees. for their invitation. I look forward to working cooperatively with the To report any suspicious activity or Committee to find ways to improve wrongdoing to OAC, call the Fraud public housing programs to protect Hotline at 215-684-8300, email OAC@ against fraud, waste, and abuse; and pha.phila.gov, or write to Office of Audit to ensure that scarce public housing and Compliance, Attn: Complaint PHA President and CEO Kelvin A. Jeremiah (right) is sworn in before the House Committee on Oversight & Government Reform’s resources go to the families who need Intake Unit, 12 S. 23rd Street, 5th Floor, Subcommittee on Government Operations before testifying on changes necessary to reduce waste, fraud, and abuse of public housing funds. it most.” Philadelphia, PA 19103. He was joined by David Montoya, HUD Inspector General and Cecil House, General Manager of the New York City Housing Authority, who also testified before the committee. HCV Clients Seek Higher Opportunity PHA’s LEED Gold Development The new Housing Opportunity tenant and landlord responsibilities, Honored Again Program (HOP) is giving Housing fair housing laws, how to approach Choice Voucher recipients the tools a landlord, and the importance of It seems that PHA’s LEED Gold the neighborhood and has attracted Grant to complete the transformation they need to find the perfect home for budgeting and financial management. Norris Apartments are a hit with positive attention from students and of the Norris neighborhood.” their family. private citizens. HCV resident Katrisha Hairston everyone who sees them, from people who live in the North-Central PHA used locally made materials HOP is a new pilot program recently went through HOP. Now, Norris Apartments, located neighborhood to judges from the as much as possible to reduce its designed to help voucher holders she and her two children are living adjacent to Temple University’s main agency’s professional associations and carbon footprint. Besides saving find housing in Opportunity Areas. in the house of their dreams in the campus, is PHA’s first LEED certified peer groups. energy, the goals for the new Generally, Opportunity Areas are Overbrook section of Philadelphia. development, and meets nationally development included improved family-friendly communities with She praised the HOP staff for their The Mid-Atlantic Regionalaccepted standards for planning, aesthetics, safety, health, and reducing good schools, safe neighborhoods, support as she looked for a home and Council of the National Association design, construction, and operation stormwater runoff. good job availability, and a diverse prepared to move. “They took the time of Housing and Redevelopment of high-performance green buildings. population. They offer a wide variety to listen and reached out every day,” Officials (NAHRO) has recognized the Energy savings for the apartment Norris Apartments is a of choice in terms of location, types of Ms. Hairston said. “It’s wonderful to green development for outstanding units are projected at 29 to 39 percent, transit-oriented development, located housing, services, and amenities. have somebody on your side, looking achievement. The council includes while the townhomes are projected near the Temple University rail station, out for you and your family.” housing and community development to save 38 to 45 percent, compared to a hub for all of SEPTA’s Regional Rail “We want our voucher holders agencies in New York, New Jersey, conventionally-built units. lines. Residents also have easy access to carefully consider their housing The Housing Opportunity Program Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware, to the Broad Street subway and the 23 choices when they are looking for a is a regional housing initiative of “The housing authority has made a and Washington D.C. and C bus lines. Bus routes 4, 47, and home. The community you choose to the Housing Authority of Chester long-term commitment to sustainable 16 are just three to four blocks away. live in will impact every aspect of your County and the Philadelphia Housing NAHRO honored Norris development,” said Kelvin A. Jeremiah, life—your job prospects, your family’s Authority. Apartments with an “Award of PHA President and CEO. “Our design The development is also near a health, and your children’s education,” at Norris is in sync with Temple variety of educational services and the If you are a voucher holder Merit.” That’s a total of six awards said PHA President and CEO Kelvin A. University and other private developers commercial corridor of Broad Street. interested in participating in the for this beautiful, sustainable Jeremiah. in the North-Central neighborhood, Housing Opportunity Program, please development in a neighborhood ripe for renewal and revitalization. The where, in partnership with the Participants in the program receive call (215) 684-4050 to schedule an development complements ongoing City and others, we have won a housing counseling before, during, appointment with a housing counselor. public and private development in Choice Neighborhoods Implementation and after they move to an Opportunity Area, as well as training that covers

A Community Newspaper for and about Residents Housing News 7 Quarterly Board Resolution Updates

march 2014 april 2014 • Resolution 11684 – authorized PHA 1) implement an energy procurement • Resolution 11693 – authorized PHA • Resolution 11701 – authorized PHA Company; Domus, Inc.; The to contract with Couture Cleaning strategy for electricity, to approve the Act 130 Report for to contract with Gold Medal Supply, McKissack Group; Gilbane Building LLC, Milestone Construction 2)enter into cooperative Fiscal Year 2014, as required by the Inc. for solid waste removal services Company; Shoemaker/Synterra; and and Management LLC, Daniels purchasing agreements with other Pennsylvania Housing Authorities Law. at various PHA locations in a total TN Ward Company Builders in a total Contracting of Philadelphia, governmental agencies, and • Resolution 11694 – authorized PHA amount not to exceed $256,464. aggregate amount not to exceed Premier-CSI, and Total 3) enter into contracts and to obtain up to 300 publicly-owned • Resolution 11702 – authorized PHA $450 million. Environmental Concepts for vacant commitments for the purchase of properties around Blumberg from to contract with both Clark Roofing • Resolution 11710 – authorized PHA property cleanout services for electricity, subject to certain the Philadelphia Redevelopment and Carpentry, Inc. and Milestone to contract with Connor Strong & conventional and scattered sites for limitations set by the Board in Authority for nominal value and Construction, Inc. to provide roofing Buckelew for insurance broker and a 1 year base period and 2 one-year the resolution. to apply, as needed, for certain of repair, replacement, and maintenance consulting services in a total option periods with a total aggregate • Resolution 11689 – authorized PHA to the properties through the City of services in a total amount not to aggregate amount, if all options are amount for the 5 contracts, if all 1) implement an energy procurement Philadelphia’s Vacant Property exceed $500,000. exercised, not to exceed $660,000. options are exercised, not to strategy for natural gas, Review Committee. exceed $1,110,000. • Resolution 11711 – authorized a 2) enter into cooperative purchasing • Resolution 11695 – authorized PHA modification of the contract with agreements with other JUNE 2014 • Resolution 11685 – authorized to construct and develop a new Dale Corporation for construction governmental agencies, and PHA to contract with the following project-based voucher development • Resolution 11703 – approved PHA’s management services for the 3)enter into contracts and companies for services for pensions: at 30th and Gordon Streets and to Annual Moving to Work Report Strawberry Mansion Oakdale commitments for the purchase 1) Milliman Inc., for federally contract with Dale Corporation for for Fiscal Year 2014 for submission Street Redevelopment Project and of natural gas, subject to certain required independent Certified the construction of 21 units. to HUD and certified that PHA ratification of amounts committed limitations set by the Board in Public Accountant services in an has met the three MTW statutory under the original contract. The the resolution. • Resolution 11696 – authorized PHA amount not to exceed $349,681, requirements. modification is for the bifurcation including any option periods, to execute a contract amendment • Resolution 11690 – authorized PHA • Resolution 11704 – approved of the project into two task order 2) NEPC LLC, for investment with Isdaner & Company, LLC for to execute a contract amendment amendments regarding Violence contracts and the addition of 3 consulting in an amount not to financial audit and audit-related with Sovereign Security for Against Women and reasonable residential units to the Oakdale Street exceed $684,000 for the Defined services for PHA. The amendment uniformed unarmed and armed accommodation provisions to the task order contract. The contract Benefit plan and not to exceed will allow PHA to process final security guard services at various Public Housing Admissions and modification amount is not to exceed $360,000 for the Defined payment for additional services PHA sites. This amendment keeps Continued Occupancy Policy and $1,948,412 and the ratification Contribution plan, both including rendered. the same contract term and amount, the Housing Choice Voucher Program amount is in the amount of any option periods, and • Resolution 11697 – authorized PHA but allows PHA to use the total Administrative Plan. $21,053,535. 3) Duane Morris LLP, for required to separately contract with Four amount authorized under Resolution • Resolution 11712 – authorized legal support in an amount not 11622 for the three years of the initial Seasons Total Landscaping, Inc. • Resolution 11705 – authorized PHA to exceed $210,000, including and Sabia Landscaping to provide to contract with the Bronner Group, the execution of a negotiated contract at its discretion, rather than Memorandum of Agreement with any option periods. being limited to a per year amount. landscaping services at six PHA sites. LLC; Edgemere Consulting Corp.; and CSG Advisors, Inc., to provide the Building and Construction Trades • Resolution 11698 – authorized PHA • Resolution 11686 – made • Resolution 11691 – authorized PHA consultant management services in a Council of Philadelphia and Vicinity, to separately contract for small amendments to the Defined Benefit to execute contract amendments total aggregate amount not to exceed which covers PHA’s 642 maintenance construction management services Plan to change the Average Earnings with Hispanic Ventures, Torrado $5,516,875. employees. period used to calculate the (under $5 million) with Allied Construction, and Ashley • Resolution 11713 – authorized accrued benefit, end future accruals Construction; Noble Strategy; • Resolution 11706 – authorized PHA Enterprises/MFO Painting Brigade the execution of a negotiated in the DB plan for its non- JD Bravo Co.; Bittenbender to obtain the approvals necessary for painting services for units at Memorandum of Agreement with represented employee participants, Construction; Perryman Building from any governmental entity to various PHA sites. This amendment District Council 33, American and transfer those participants to Co.; Constructionomics/BFW enter into a project labor agreement keeps the same contract term and Federation of State, County and the Defined Contribution Plan, Group; Tilmar Designs; Domus, and to negotiate with the appropriate amount, but allows PHA to use Municipal Employees, AFL-CIO, unless they chose to opt out of Inc.; and Milestone Construction. labor organizations for construction the total amount authorized under Local 934, which covers PHA’s 57 the changes. projects. Resolution 11645 for the four years service representatives, clerks, and of the initial contract at its • Resolution 11707 – authorized PHA • Resolution 11687 – authorized PHA warehouse workers. discretion, rather than being limited may 2014 to provide an operating and capital to contract with Devine Brothers, to a per year amount. • Resolution 11699 – authorized PHA subsidy for Saint Francis Villa Senior • Resolution 11714 – authorized the Inc. and Ciright Automation LLC, execution of an agreement with the Resolution 11692 – authorized PHA to separately contract with 20 entities Housing. doing business as TriState HVAC • Building and Construction Trades to execute an interagency agreement for architectural and engineering Controls, for maintenance and repair • Resolution 11708 – authorized PHA Council of Philadelphia and Vicinity with the Philadelphia Redevelopment support services in a total amount services (including parts) for to contract with Education Works covering provisional employees to Authority to act as PHA’s agent for not to exceed $5.1 million. building automation systems/ and the Dream Program for summer perform major rehabilitation work eminent domain services performed supervisory control and data • Resolution 11700 – authorized PHA youth program services for 470 PHA on PHA properties. acquisition/energy management for up to 1,000 properties around to contract with Domus, Inc. for residents at 18 sites in a total aggregate expert systems (BAS/SCADA/EMES) the Blumberg development for an construction management services amount not to exceed $356,000. amount not to exceed $44 million, in a total contract amount, if all for the Blumberg project in a total • Resolution 11709 – authorized which includes the costs related to options are exercised, not to exceed amount not to exceed $20,494,300. separate construction management PRA’s services and an estimate for $1,906,000. services contracts with Dale just compensation for the purchase •Resolution 11688 – authorized PHA to Construction; Keating Building or condemnation of the identified properties.

www.pha.phila.gov 8 PHA Pride

PHAPD and Resident Councils Host Basketball Tournament and Safety Fair

On Saturday, August 23, PHAPD along with Resident Councils from Harrison Plaza, Spring Garden Apartments, Cambridge Plaza and Richard Allen Homes hosted a youth basketball tournament and community health and safety fair. The event took place to foster unity among youth residents from different sites as well as with the police. Each site received a participation trophy, and an MVP trophy was awarded to the player who scored the highest number of points in the tournament. The championship and second place teams were also awarded with gold and silver medals.

A Community Newspaper for and about Residents PHA Pride 9 PHA and Philly Seeds Organize Back to School Jam

The Philadelphia Housing Authority and Philly Seeds Inc. handed out over 3,000 book bags filled with school supplies to residents during its annual Back to School Jam held at the John F. Street Community Center in North Philadelphia and the Wilson Park Community Center in South Philadelphia on Friday, August 15 and Saturday, August 16. The agency also received donations for the back to school events from Citizens Bank, Philadelphia Federal Credit Union, Duvernay and Brooks, and Edgemere Consulting.

www.pha.phila.gov 10 Resident Living Residents Elect New 2014 - 2015 Resident Commissioners Philadelphia Housing Authority

This past April, Philadelphia Housing self-sufficiency, and more security,” she Authority residents participated in said. Board of Commissioners an election to designate two Resident On Election Day, the polls opened Commissioners to the nine-member Meeting Calendar at 7:00 a.m. at 19 locations. When the PHA Board of Commissioners, polls closed at 7:00 p.m., three percent pursuant to a process agreed upon by of eligible residents had cast their vote. the PHA President & CEO, the Mayor When the tally was completed, Asia and the City Council President, as The Third Thursday of every month at 3:00 pm Coney came in first with 38 percent * These meetings will take place on the fourth Thursday required by the Pennsylvania Housing of the vote and Ethel Wise came in Authorities Law, as amended (Act 130). second with 22 percent. January 16 May 15 September 25* January 15 Seven residents ran for the positions “This was a historic event. This and the winners with the highest election will ensure that residents February 20 June 19 October 23* February 19 number of votes were Asia Coney are represented and able to provide and Ethel Wise. Both have since even more input on matters involving March 20 July 17 November 20 march 19 been approved by the City Council policy and planning around PHA,” and appointed to the positions by 2015 april 16 said PHA President and CEO, Kelvin April 17 no August Meeting December 18 the Mayor. A. Jeremiah. may 21 Asia Coney, who is the President In order to ensure the fairness and all pha board meetings are held at of the Resident Advisory Board and neutrality of the election, PHA used 12 S. 23rd Street, 6th Floor, Phila. Pa 19103 has been sitting on the Board of the services of an independent third Commissioners temporarily, said she party to monitor the progress. campaigned for the position and is ready for the work ahead. The Resident Commissioner positions, like those of all the PHA Philly Seeds Awards “We just completed a historical Commissioners, are voluntary and Resident Commissioner Election, all of the Commissioners have the where two residents were selected by same responsibilities and duties. Scholarships to PHA Residents the people. We have a chance to bridge While Resident Commissioners are the gap and help PHA make this not on the Board to represent any transparency real,” she said. other tenant or organization, they are Also elected was the President of the to share their knowledge from the Wilson Park Family Resident Council, tenant’s viewpoint. Ethel Wise. Her campaign platform Under Act 130, all PHA Commissioners focused on resident issues. serve terms concurrent with the term “As Commissioner, I would like of the appointing Mayor. to see a big change in the housing Julia Danzy has also been appointed authority. I want to see more resident to Board after the resignation of participation, more resident programs, Nelson Diaz. more economic development, more

PHA President and CEO Kelvin A. Jeremiah along with Board Commissioners congratulated scholarship recipients at the July board meeting. Philly Seeds, Inc., a Philadelphia Housing Authority subsidiary, awarded over $200,000 in scholarships to 53 PHA residents seeking higher education. On Thursday, July 17, Philly Seeds, The number of residents applying a resident leader reviewed the Inc., a Philadelphia Housing Authority for scholarships increased this year and applications. They considered the subsidiary, awarded over $200,000 the judges continued to see incredible applicants’ essays, community service, in scholarships to 53 PHA residents performances by students with grade extracurricular activities, internships, seeking higher education; a significant point averages of 3.5 and higher. In recommendation letters, and academic increase from a year ago when 36 fact, 28 of the 53 scholarships were transcripts in making their selections. residents won scholarships totaling awarded to residents with a GPA of 3.3 Scholarships were awarded in the $160,000. or greater. amounts of $1,000, $3,000, and $5,000. “I strongly believe that education To qualify for the scholarship, The scholarship recipients represent is the key, the real game changer that students must be a current PHA PHA developments around the City, as bridges the poverty gap and provides resident and admitted to an accredited well as the Housing Choice Voucher for social and economic mobility. I two or four-year college, university, Program. Scholarships applications want to commend our scholars on or trade/technical school with a for next year will be made available in their academic achievement and wish minimum grade point average of 3.0 Spring 2015. them continued success in the new (B) or higher. school year,” said PHA President and PhillySeeds, Inc. is a charitable, Money for the scholarships comes CEO Kelvin A. Jeremiah. “This is non-profit corporation that seeks from PHA’s operating budget and another great way to empower our to promote the welfare of public funds donated by vendors as part of Resident Commissioner Asia Çoney Resident Commissioner Ethel Wise residents and help our families reach and assisted housing residents their Section 3 commitments. self-sufficiency with the education through philanthropic activities, and training resources necessary to A committee composed of PHA community-based partnerships, and succeed in life.” employees, student residents, and special initiatives.

A Community Newspaper for and about Residents Resident Living 11 Bartram Village Resident Council Joins Community for a Special Event

A beautiful Sunday afternoon in idea was to expose this community June brought thousands of people to to the Schuylkill River that runs right Bartram’s Garden, right next door to along the Gardens and helps identify PHA’s Bartram Village, for a fun-filled Bartram as a point where families can community day for families. get out for some safe fun and family recreation along the river, he said, “So On this day, there was something we brought some row boats and kayaks for everyone - a petting zoo with lots from the Seaport Museum and we had of animals for the kids, free food, ice the Patriot Harbor Line provided free cream, blood pressure testing, music, a boat rides up and down the Schuylkill.” museum, boat rides, and more. Vice President of the Resident Justin DiBerardinis is Bartram’s Council at Bartram Village, Sheila Garden’s Community Outreach Anthony said the event took months Coordinator. of planning. “We participated with “This is new to Bartram and the Bartram’s Garden to make this

Residents from Bartram Village and the surrounding community enjoyed free kayaking down the Schuylkill River.

community river fest a success. We “PHA’s Bartram Village wanted to Most of the money for the event invited all of the residents at Bartram work closely with Bartram’s Garden came from a $5,000 grant from the Village and we had a great turnout. because we’re next door neighbors. We William Penn Foundation. This is the A good 75 percent of residents from wanted to unite and work as one and first year for this community day and Bartram Village participated.” feel like neighbors, so we incorporated organizers say they plan to make it an There was no shortage of volunteers. our activities together,” said Vanessa annual event. Bartram Village and Bartram’s Garden volunteers worked together to create a successful Some were directing traffic while Pitts, the Resident Council President event. (From l to r) Darcell Arthur, Bartram Village volunteer; Cashia Bryant, Bartram’s for Bartram Village. Garden volunteer; Sheila Anthony, Bartram Village Resident Council Vice President; others manned the tables. Vanessa Pitts, Bartram Village Resident Council President. World Changers Team with PHA Again for More Community Service

Almost 100 volunteers from the group World Changers took part in landscaping, painting, and other general maintenance work at Philadelphia Housing Authority sites. PHA honored them at a luncheon on Friday after they had completed several days of work. For the second year in a row, volunteers from the group known as World Changers visited five public housing developments and provided renovations. The Philadelphia Housing For the second year in a row, The volunteers traveled from West Park Plaza, Johnson Homes, and Authority received close to $100,000 in labor as a result of their work. Shown here are volunteers from the group World across the U.S. and worked from July Spring Garden Apartments. volunteers working on the sidewalk and a gazebo at West Park Plaza in West Philadelphia. Changers returned to Philadelphia 15 to July 18 at five public housing “We always welcome productive this city and its neighborhoods to stay for the Salvation Army of Eastern to work with PHA at public housing developments. developments to help provide partnerships with groups such as vibrant and vital, and to thrive.” Pennsylvania and Delaware. Close to 100 volunteers took part in World Changers,” said PHA President renovations. The Philadelphia Housing The partnership with World World Changers promotes youth vacancy reduction, painting and other and CEO Kelvin A. Jeremiah. “Given Authority received nearly $100,000 in Changers was spearheaded in 2013 mission projects among Southern general maintenance work at Hill Creek the budgetary limits that we face, labor as a result of the volunteer efforts by PHA Commissioner Rev. Bonnie Baptists and other evangelical Apartments, Fairhill Apartments, partnerships are continually becoming of this community service partner. Camarda, the Director of Partnerships churches. more important and necessary for

www.pha.phila.gov 12 Resident Living Female Vet Urges Others to Make PHA Celebrates National a Leap of Faith to Homeownership Homeownership Month

The Philadelphia Housing12:00 p.m. at 712 N. 16th Street. In Authority’s Homeownership Division these sessions, residents can learn celebrated National Homeownership about credit and money management. Month in June with three workshops Residents interested in attending the and housing counseling sessions. workshops or counseling sessions are asked to bring paperwork or statements So far, in 2014, PHA has helped detailing their income, rental housing, 15 residents become homeowners and any assets. and has a goal of helping many more achieve their dreams. The June PHA is searching for other workshops featured information on organizations to expand credit and its importance, housing homeownership financial counseling counseling, current housing programs, services to residents under a and resources to help participants contractual agreement. The agency reach their goal. Former residents who currently partners with Philadelphia have successfully purchased their own Financial Empowerment Centers, a homes spoke about their experience in joint initiative of the Mayor’s Office the program. of Community Empowerment & Opportunity, and its partner, “There is no better way to mark the Clarifi, the region’s leading financial occasion of National Homeownership counseling nonprofit. Month than to help more families realize the American Dream,” said For more information about PHA President and CEO Kelvin the workshops or counseling A. Jeremiah. sessions, please contact the PHA Homeownership Division at 215-684- Michelle Griffin-Franks (right), PHA’s first female vet to become a homeowner under the HUD-VASH Program, explains to Navy vet Thomas “Homeownership provides families 5300. Green (left) and Army vet Edward Mack (center) how the program works. Griffin-Franks told a packed house at the VASH Homeownership with more than shelter, it is an workshop in University City to make a leap of faith and take advantage of the program and its subsidies. important personal investment that can help build wealth, stabilize families, The first woman to become a workshop was a joint venture of PHA VASH coordinators, and Family Self- and restore communities. That is why homeowner through PHA and and the HUD-VASH program. Sufficiency coordinators. PHA has renewed its commitment to the HUD-VASH (Veteran Affairs “It’s easier than what they think All of the vets who are in the responsible homeownership.” Supported Housing) Program urged it is. Once you get pre-approval, you Housing Choice Voucher Program fellow veterans to conquer their PHA’s Homeownership Division can go anywhere from there,” she said. have the opportunity to make the jump fears and make a leap of faith to also holds housing counseling sessions “Make a leap of faith. Go out there on to homeownership. homeownership. every Monday from 10:00 a.m. to your own. It’s out there to get.” Veteran Edward Mack attended Michelle Griffin-Franks addressed Marco Ferreira, PHA’s Program presentations to learn more about a packed house for the VASH Manager for Homeownership, told the program. Homeownership Workshop at the vets in attendance that they had a Veterans Administration hospital “I’d rather have something that I three-way support team: the PHA Historic Partnership in University City in early May. The can have equity in. I’m just paying rent Homeownership Division, HUD- now and that’s it. It’s not mine. I just want something that’s mine that I can Formed Between leave to my kids,” said Mack, who lives in West Mount Airy. PHA and Unions Another female vet, Tonyatta (continued from page 3) Smith, who lives in southwest “This historic agreement between “We are excited to be a part of this Philadelphia, was ready to take part in the building trades and PHA means historic agreement that brings stability the program the following week. Over more jobs, less wasteful overtime, to our workforce,” said Sam Staten, Jr., the last 2 years, 4 veterans have already and more quality affordable housing Business Manager for Laborers Local purchased their home through the for Philadelphia residents: a win-win- 332. “We look forward to our program, and 5 are pending. win,” Council President Clarke said. continued partnership with Kelvin “I have a son and I want to leave “I am grateful to the building trades Jeremiah and the Housing something to him. What I’m paying [in and to Kelvin Jeremiah of PHA for Authority and being a part of the rent], I might as well have a house,” she their commitment to City Council’s solution to bring more affordable said. workforce housing strategy. The need housing to Philadelphia.” for affordable housing in Philadelphia She is hopeful that, with this only keeps growing, and this The U.S. Department of Labor must program, she will become a homeowner agreement brings our goal of 2,000 approve the agreement to make it final. in the next year. new units closer to reality.” Veterans interested in the HUD- Marco Ferreira, PHA’s Program Manager for Homeownership, urged veterans attending the VASH Homeownership Program can VASH Homeownership workshop to take the first step toward homeownership. call 215-684-5300 to learn more.

A Community Newspaper for and about Residents Resident Living 13

RESIDENT DEVELOPMENT COMMUNITY PARTNER TRAINING PROGRAMS EXISTING PROGRAMS Adult Basic Education Entrepreneurship Program Training Provides students with math, reading, and writing skills in Offers classes, individualized coaching, and a professional and preparation for General Education Development (GED) testing. nurturing environment for students with a desire to be gainfully In the end, students will develop skills needed to aid professional self-employed. At the program’s conclusion, students are prepared and personal development. to begin their own businesses.

UPCOMING PROGRAMS

Customer Service Commercial Driver’s License October 2014 Develops skills needed to work effectively in settings requiring Graduates will be certified to drive commercial trucks and a employees to be the link between customers. Participants will, variety of large vehicles permitting them to gain employment as also, learn job application skills, résumé development, and bus drivers, delivery drivers, etc. interview technique.

Human Services Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) and Participants of this program receive counseling, management, Phlebotomy Technician October 20th and communication skills permitting them to provide guidance Participants learn entry-level nursing skills, as well as, ethics in and mentoring to at-risk populations (mentally/physically disabled, healthcare, communication skills, infection control, and basic welfare recipients, disadvantaged youth, chronically homeless, etc.). nursing skills. Graduates may obtain entry-level employment in a variety of healthcare settings.

Customer Service Prepares participants for employment in offices, retail establishment, or call centers. Targets participants with work experience, but may Culinary Skills Training benefit those seeking first-time employment. Offers in-depth training in the hospitality management industry, Community College of Philadelphia which includes: - Introduction to Hospitality - Introductory Food Preparation Workforce Ready - ServSafe® Food Preparation Management Certification Provides participants with job preparation, customer service, Upon completion, participant will have skills and certification for general office, and basic English and math skills. employment in hospitals, restaurants, and hotels. Community College of Philadelphia Community College of Philadelphia

Please Call 215.684.5300

www.pha.phila.gov 14 Resident Living FSS Program Helping Residents Reach Success

The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) When Summers reached her goal Program helps Housing Choice of a four-year college degree, she Voucher recipients and public housing successfully completed her participation residents to increase their earned in the FSS program. income and reduce their dependency She plans on using her escrow check on public assistance. Participants set to pay off a school loan and some goals with a case manager and sign a other small bills, then begin saving commitment contract. for homeownership. She also plans on Any increases in the family’s rent starting a nonprofit program to help as a result of increased earned income women who are reentering society, during the family’s participation in the an idea that she developed as part of her program result in a deposit of money senior project at Philadelphia University. to a special account. Once a family successfully graduates from the Summers believes re-entry programs program, they may access the account are not tailored for women and when and use it for any purpose. they’re away, many people are affected because they are vital to their households. Early this year, PHA received grants totaling $400,000 from the U.S. “You just start to realize how important Department of Housing and Urban empowering a woman is within the Development (HUD) to continue community for change.” she said. operating the FSS Program. As for fellow PHA residents, she Terry Summers was teary-eyed as strongly encourages them to take she recounted her journey toward a advantage of the FSS Program. Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services “When I needed books, they and Behavioral Health from Philadelphia gave me money. When I needed a University. She was happy that seven computer, they made sure I had one,” years of hard work and struggle had she said. paid off. William Myles, Acting Executive She worked full-time while attending Vice President of Community Operations school with three children and a and Resident Development presented Janet Allen (right) and her son Jermaine plan to open a business with her escrow account money from FSS. “Not Just Juice” is a business grandchild with Down syndrome. In Terry with her FSS check, and said her idea that was developed with a mentor at Temple University’s Entrepreneurial Workshop that will start out as a mobile cart and evolve into June 2011, she received her Associates story shows that persistence combined a storefront location. degree in Addiction Studies, Disability with hard work leads to success. Studies, and Human Services from Janet Allen feels truly blessed. This to work hard and make my business “I think my calling was to be around Community College of Philadelphia. “Success does not come overnight newly-minted FSS Program graduate is strive,” she said. “My time and my people. Truck driving was such an She completed work for her four-year for most people,” he said. “But hard opening her own business this summer quality of work and product, I have isolated job,” she said. “I love the degree in May 2013 and is currently work does create the opportunities, and working toward homeownership, faith that it will grow.” activity, the energy of children.” but she has had to face both career and employed with the Health Federation the situations that eventually lead to Not so long ago, Allen thought she Nonetheless, Allen has dreamed of financial challenges along the way. at the Department of Public Health as success. It also creates a strong sense had gotten over the hump and on the having her own business since she was a RAPID HIV Tester and Counselor. of value and a base of knowledge for “Anything worth getting is worth road to success. She had an Associ- 17. And now, she will get that chance the future.” working hard for. And I’m determined ate’s degree from Community Col- using the money accrued in her FSS lege of Philadelphia and was working account. for a nonprofit, the Institute for the “Not Just Juice” is a business idea that Development of African-American was developed with a mentor at Temple Youth. Then in 2009, she was laid off. University’s Entrepreneurial Workshop. She picked herself up, went to truck Allen and her son will operate a driving school, and gained a commercial mobile, refrigerated cart in a driver’s license for long haul drivers. high-traffic area on JFK Boulevard, Just as things began looking up, she just east of 30th Street Station. They became the primary caretaker of her will serve smoothies, coffee, tea, and granddaughter and could not gain assorted homemade beverages. employment in her newfound field. Eventually, she wants to open a Allen trained again and obtained storefront location for her business, another commercial license that where kids can come, have healthy allowed her to drive school buses with food and drinks, and be safe. A-1 Transportation Company, the firm that employs her to this day. For more information about the FSS program please contact, 215-684-5300

William Myles, Acting Executive Vice President of Community Operations and Resident Development, presents Terry Summers with her FSS escrow check.

A Community Newspaper for and about Residents Health and Safety 15 PHAPD Celebrates Fraternal Order of Housing Police Awards Looking for quality adult day services? Then Ridge Avenue is the place to be...

At Ridge Avenue Eldercare Services, our certified, caring staff offers clients a daytime program of recreational activities, social services, meals, and quality nursing care in a new, state-of- the-art facility. Ridge Avenue Eldercare Services is certified by the Pennsylvania Department of Aging to provide free and discounted health services for qualified seniors. If you or your loved one is not pre-qualified for state benefits, Officer John Morozin presented the Officer of the Year Award to Officer Thomas Vetri on July our staff is happy to assist you in 30, 2014 at the first annual Fraternal Order of Housing Police Awards Ceremony. the application process. More than 30 Philadelphia Housing beyond the call of duty in serving PHA Authority Police Officers received residents. PHAPD also presented for high recognition in July at the first the very first time an Officer of the Year We Provide: annual Fraternal Order of Housing Award to Officer Thomas Vetri. Police Awards Ceremony for going Meals: • Lunch Summer Food Service Activities: • Interactive Programs • Therapeutic Activities Program Offers Healthy • Fitness and Exercise • Health & Wellness Education Meals and Activities • Cultural Participation • Socializing and Networking The Philadelphia Housing Authority’s No child should ever have to go hungry Transportation: • Provided to and from the center Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) in this City; and that is why PHA is offered comprehensive summer youth pleased to sponsor this program by a Medication Management: • Worry-free medication assistance enrichment activities in addition contribution of over $200,000 of its to breakfast and lunch for children own funds to this effort.” again this year. Philadelphia has a poverty rate The program began on Monday, of 26.9 percent according to the Call today and make an appointment for a guided tour. June 23 and ran until Friday, August Census Bureau and the City remains 22. SFSP took place at 20 PHA sites the poorest among the 10 largest in throughout the City and provided 35 America. Over 36 percent of children part-time jobs for PHA clients and in the City are living in poverty, and local residents. just over 26 percent of households in Philadelphia participate in the PHA is one of several large sponsors Supplemental Nutrition Assistance of the program in the City, which Program (SNAP). Programs such as provides breakfast and lunch to PHA’s Summer Food Service Program youth. During the summer of 2013, are essential especially since Congress the program served well over 43,000 reduced SNAP funding last October. healthy meals to children ages 3 to 18 from public housing sites and the Children who do not live at a surrounding neighborhoods. This participating PHA site were able to go summer the total meals served by PHA to a neighboring site or one of 150 sites increased to over 55,000. operated by the City’s Department of Parks and Recreation, which will offer “The Summer Food Service similar meals. 2653 W. Glenwood Avenue • Phila., PA 19121 Program is a necessity for families in Philadelphia, in part, because it takes SFSP is a reimbursement-based the place of the school lunch program,” grant program funded by the United 215.684.2464 said PHA President and CEO Kelvin States Department of Agriculture, A. Jeremiah. “We believe it’s important through Pennsylvania’s Department of that our young people have access to Education. The intent of this program good, nutritional meals that are critical is to provide free breakfast, lunch, and/ for healthy growth and development. or snacks to children 18-years-old and under. www.pha.phila.gov 16 Community Partner Resident Fair

JOHN F. STREET CENTER, 1100 POPLAR STREET PHILADELPHIA, PA 19123

OCTOBER 16TH and OCTOBER 30TH 12PM-2PM

Meet Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA) community partners to learn about development programs leading to self-su ciency. Among the many programs PHA oers are:

Certi ed Nursing Assistant (CNA) Phlebotomy Human Services Commercial Drivers Licensing (CDL) Automotive Technician Training Workforce Development And Many Others!

TAKE A MAJOR STEP AND INVEST YOUR FUTURE TODAY! SPACE IS LIMITED! For Answers to Questions, Please Call 215.684.3124 or 215.684.5300

A Community Newspaper for and about Residents