Affordable Housing Resident Programs & Supportive Services

We are dedicated to uplifting our community and residents by offering effective resident programs.

Our resident programs aim to promote independence, community involvement, and individual growth, creating a lively and nurturing atmosphere for everyone. They are based on comprehensive evaluations of residents' needs and challenges.

Resident Associations: Amplifying Voices

Our Resident Associations serve as a platform for residents to actively participate in decision-making processes. By organizing tenant councils for each major affordable housing development, residents can provide input into our Annual Plan, operating policies, and future development projects. They also play an important role in sponsoring social events such as leadership training seminars.

This collaborative approach empowers individuals and strengthens the community by nurturing a sense of collective responsibility.

Family Self-Sufficiency Program: Pathway to Independence

The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program encourages employment and savings, providing support to families residing in affordable housing. The program offers case management services to help participants secure employment and achieve financial goals.

It also offers escrow accounts into which the Housing Authority deposits the increased rent that a family pays as its job earnings increase. The family can withdraw funds from these accounts five years after completing the program. This structure encourages economic independence and reduces reliance on government assistance.

Youth Programs: Nurturing Future Leaders

Recognizing the importance of early development, our Community Resource Department offers a wide range of youth programs. We provide a welcoming space for young residents and a variety of activities and resources, including after-school academic help, homework support, and soccer and basketball leagues.

The "Teens & Dreams" initiative supports middle and high school students in achieving academic excellence and pursuing higher education, providing them with essential resources for a promising future. Services include:

• Youth advisory council meetings
• Financial aid counseling sessions
• Tours of college campuses
• Career readiness and motivational workshops
• Community service activities

We are always looking for tutor volunteers and mentors, and training is available. Call us at (315) 735-5246 if you are interested!

Making Community Impact

People First’s resident programs promote self-sufficiency, educational advancement, and active civic engagement, positively influencing the broader Utica community.