NAMI HAMILTON COUNTY

Housing Assistance through Excel Development

Jackie Robinson, Excel Development's General Manager, writes:

Excel Development Company operates 300 scattered site apartments in twenty-two neighborhoods throughout Hamilton County. These apartments provide suitable and secure housing for independent living that is close to shopping and bus line. 

The apartments were purchased using the Ohio Department of Mental Health (ODMH) capital funds, and are are made available to participants who meet criteria for housing rent assistance. 

Persons active in case management in the Hamilton County Community Mental Health Board (HCCMHB) mental health system can receive this service after it is determined that the applicant can maintain independent living. The case manager makes referral to the Manager of Housing Assistance Programs at Excel.

This referral is then reviewed to determine eligibility under ODMH  and HCCMHB Housing Assistance Guidelines. Once eligibility is established, the applicant is placed on one of four waiting lists prioritized according to the current living situation. 

When a certificate becomes available, an appointment will be scheduled to brief the applicant and case manager, complete all paperwork and provide instructions necessary to locate suitable housing.

A participant's portion of rent will be approximately 30% to 35% of monthly adjusted income and assets, depending upon the kind of housing assistance certificate awarded. A start-up loan option for security deposit, furniture, and household items is available. If chosen, rent will be increased by an additional 5% until the loan is paid off. 

The apartment selected must meet rent and inspection guidelines established by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Once compliance with these guidelines is verified, the Assistant Manager of Housing Assistance Programs will establish a start date for the program lease and contract to be signed by the participant-tenant and landlord. 

All housing assistance program participants are recertified annually to verify income, assets, and household composition. The apartment will also be inspected for housing quality standards. 

For further information please contact Jackie Robinson, General Manager at 513-632-7149.