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23 <br /> Among the residents, 54%are working families, reflecting a population that actively contributes to <br /> the local economy while benefiting from stable, affordable housing.The resident population is <br /> linguistically diverse,with English being the primary language spoken.Additionally, several other <br /> Languages are represented, including Karen,Arabic, Burmese,Spanish, and Mandarin, <br /> highlighting the multicultural nature of the community. <br /> The demographic composition of the public housing residents shows a wide range of ages: <br /> • Residents aged 65 and older: 77 individuals, indicating the presence of senior households <br /> that may require supportive services. <br /> • Residents aged 18 and older: 230 individuals, including many working adults and <br /> independent young residents. <br /> • Residents under the age of 18: 310 individuals, reflecting a significant population of <br /> children and youth, emphasizing the importance of family-oriented services, educational <br /> support, and recreational opportunities within these housing communities. <br /> This diversity and range of ages underscore the need for tailored resources,from workforce <br /> development for adults to supportive services for seniors and youth-focused programs.These <br /> housing units not only provide essential shelter but also serve as a foundation for fostering a <br /> thriving, inclusive community. <br /> Section 504 Needs Assessment: Describe the needs of public housing tenants and applicants <br /> on the waiting list for accessible units: <br /> The Chapel Hill Department of Affordable Housing and Community Connections reports that <br /> households on its waiting lists for accessible units request first floor units, handrails in bathrooms, <br /> accessible kitchens(maneuverable with wheelchair or walker, counters that residents in <br /> wheelchairs can reach),wider hallways, lower keyholes and eye holes on front doors. Waitlist data <br /> for OCHA shows 160 households with needs for 1 and 2 bedroom units. <br /> What are the number and type of families on the waiting lists for public housing and section 8 <br /> tenant-based rental assistance?Based on the information above, and any other information <br /> available to the jurisdiction,what are the most immediate needs of residents of public <br /> housing and Housing Choice voucher holders? <br /> The Chapel Hill Department of Affordable Housing and Community Connections reports 351 <br /> households on the waiting list(171 for one bedroom, 90 for two-bedroom, 64 for three-bedroom, 20 <br /> for four-bedroom,and 6 for five-bedroom).They also report that they need additional one-bedroom <br /> units to meet the needs of those on the waiting lists. <br /> Currently,there are approximately 160 individuals on the OCHA waitlist. However,the waitlist has <br /> remained closed for several years, and no general selections have been made due to the county's <br /> policy of allocating units exclusively through the OCPEH HOME Committee for those with the <br /> highest needs.The greatest demand continues to be for affordable 1-and 2-bedroom units,which <br /> remain in short supply.This shortage highlights the ongoing need for expanded housing options to <br /> accommodate individuals and families seeking stable, affordable living arrangements. <br /> 20 <br />