HOPWA

Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS

 

What is HOPWA? 
A State program funded through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to assist with meeting the housing needs of persons with HIV disease and AIDS. The Department of Health which contracts with project sponsors (agencies and organizations) at the local level administers Florida’s HOPWA program. 

 

What services are provided? 
The State HOPWA program provides short-term, temporary housing assistance and long-term housing in specified areas to qualified individuals. The services include:   

  • Short-Term Housing Facilities placement
  • Short-Term Rent, Mortgage & Utilities Assistance
  • Supportive Services (such as Case Management)

 

What services are not provided?
Unapproved services include, but are not limited to:

  • Payments which exceed actual costs,
  • Payments made directly to clients,
  • Cash payments of any kind (including checks made out to cash),
  • Property taxes that are not included in mortgage payments,
  • Long distance telephones charges, fines and penalties, and
  • Down payment or closing costs on a home.

 

Who qualifies for services?  
Persons and their families with documented HIV disease, who meet HIV/AIDS Patient Care core eligibility requirements and other HOPWA program qualifications, such as income at or below 80% of the median income for the local area.

 

Who do I contact?
The Department of Health contracts with Project Response in Area 15 to provide HOPWA services. Please contact Mark Burneko at (772) 460-4687.

Additional information about accessing services in your area can also be obtained by calling the Florida HIV/AIDS Hotline at 1-800-FLA-AIDS.