The Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) program is a federally funded initiative managed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The program is specifically designed to address the housing needs of low-income individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS.

The primary goal of HOPWA is to ensure that individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS have access to safe, stable housing, which is a crucial component in managing their health and well-being. By providing housing assistance and supportive services HOPWA helps prevent homelessness and promotes better health outcomes for people with HIV/AIDS.

HOPWA offers a range of services to support the housing stability and overall quality of life for its beneficiaries through:

• Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) - Provides ongoing rental assistance to help cover housing costs in the private rental market, allowing individuals and families to live in stable affordable housing.
•  Short-Term Rent, Mortgage, and Utility (STRMU) Assistance - Offers temporary financial support to cover overdue rent, mortgage, or utility payments, helping to prevent eviction, foreclosure, or utility shut-offs during financial crises.
• Facility-Based Housing - Funds the development and operation of community residences and other supportive housing facilities specifically designed for people living with HIV/AIDS.
• Permanent Housing Placement (PHP) - Provides financial assistance for security deposits, first month's rent, and other costs associated with securing permanent housing.
• Supportive Services - Includes case management, healthcare support, mental health services, substance use treatment, life skills training, nutritional support, and legal assistance to help individuals maintain stable housing and improve their overall quality of life.
•  Housing Information Services - Offers guidance and resources to help individuals find and maintain housing, including tenant rights education, housing counseling, and rental search assistance.

To qualify for HOPWA services, individuals or families must:

1. Have a member who has been diagnosed with HIV/AIDS
2. Meet low-income requirements, earning less than 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI)
3. Demonstrate a need for housing assistance or supportive housing.

 HOPWA plays a vital role in helping people living with HIV/AIDS achieve housing stability, which is critical for effective HIV treatment and overall health. By addressing both housing and supportive service needs, the program helps reduce homelessness, improve health outcomes, and enhance the quality of life for its beneficiaries.

HOPWA Program Information