Auburn Forward Fall 2026
Auburn Forward Fall 2026 - Cover and Online Link
The Fall 2026 edition of Auburn Forward shares key updates from the Auburn Housing Authority, including leadership messages, community events, resident programs, awards and achievements, and important Ridgecrest development updates. It also features upcoming activities and resources available to residents.
Auburn Forward Fall 2026 - Text Version
From the CEO
Sharon N. Tolbert
Welcome to the Fall 2026 edition of the Auburn Forward!
I am grateful to announce that the Auburn Housing Authority has been awarded Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) to support the redevelopment of the Ridgecrest community. This award represents a significant step forward in our commitment to providing safe, decent, and sanitary housing for our families.
This achievement would not have been possible without the dedication and expertise of our development partner, Hollyhand Development, LLC. We extend our heartfelt thank you to their team for their hard work and collaboration throughout the application and planning process.
We are also deeply grateful to the City of Auburn (City) for their ongoing support and partnership. The City's financial contribution and zoning approvals help to make the Ridgecrest redevelopment a reality.
Together, we look forward to transforming Ridgecrest into a vibrant, welcoming community that residents will be proud to call home. We will continue to keep you informed as the project moves forward and will share opportunities for community input and engagement.
Wishing our residents, employees, Board of Commissioners, and community partners a safe, healthy, and wonderful fall season.
Thank you for your continued support!
Bountiful Blessings,
Sharon N. Tolbert
Management Agent for LaFayette & Roanoke Housing Authority
Auburn Housing Authority Affiliates: AHA Development LLC & Auburn Community Development Corp.
Board Updates
During the previous quarter (July - Sep 2026), the Board approved the AHA Development LLC Tenant Write-Offs, 2026 CDBG Grant, Employee Handbook Revisions, and other action items.
Commissioners Nolan Torbert, Deborah Hand, Marguerite White, and Barbara Leverett (LHA) attended the 86 Annual AAHRA 2026 Conference in Panama City Beach, FL, in September 2026. They attended various sessions, and other events.
Thank you, Commissioners, for taking time out of your busy schedule to attend the conference!
AHA Board Meeting
Date: October 27, November 24, December 29
Time: 12:00 p.m. (CST)
Location: Auburn Housing Authority 931 Booker Street Auburn, AL
The date, time, and location are subject to change.
Auburn Community Development Corporation (ACDC)
Under Sharon Tolbert's leadership, the AHA Board of Commissioners approved the Auburn Community Development Corporation (ACDC) as a nonprofit affiliate of the AHA on May 7, 2019.
ACDC's mission is "Empowering individuals and families by expanding affordable housing and economic opportunities in an effort to build vibrant neighborhoods and communities."
The ACDC has partnered with the City of Auburn to administer a Food Pantry at the Boykin Community Center. ACDC is also exploring affordable housing opportunities in an effort to expand housing for families in the Auburn community.
Board Updates
ACDC would like to thank the City of Auburn for its continued financial support of the Food Pantry. Below is an overview of the Food Pantry's performance for FYB2026 (July 2026 - June 2027).
During July - September 2026, 9 households were provided food during special outreach events, where 112 pounds of food were distributed.
Thank you to all volunteers that assist at the Food Pantry. We truly appreciate your help!
ACDC extends its heartfelt gratitude to City of Auburn for its 2026 Community Development Block Grant Award of $8,000. We are grateful for your continued investment in our mission.
Your support enables us to continue our mission and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. Thank you for your commitment and belief in our work. With partners like you, we can achieve even greater things together!
ACDC Board Meetings
Date: October 27, November 24, December 29
Time: 1:00 p.m. (CST)
Location: Auburn Housing Authority 931 Booker Street Auburn, AL
The date, time, and location are subject to change.
Human Resources & News
New Team Members
Larry Jackson - Maintenance Mechanic (HVAC)
John Hanna - Maintenance Mechanic (HVAC)
Work Anniversaries
Wendy Cochran - July 1st
Beth Redding - July 2nd
Sharon Tolbert - July 11th
Sylvia Impson - July 14th
Richetta Stephens - July 15th
Tabitha Griffin - August 28th
Kelvin Whitlow - September 23rd
Christina Williamson - September 30th
Birthdays
Wendy Cochran - August 4th
Justin Rowell - August 17th
Christina Williamson - August 19th
Anthony Askew - September 21st
Team Thank You!
Kudos to the Multifamily Housing Department (AHA Development LLC, LaFayette HA, and Roanoke HA) for obtaining High Performer (90 or higher) status for FYE2026 based on the following performance measurement factors:
-Physical Conditions
-Financial Conditions
-Management Operations
Your hard work has made FYE2026 a great success! We are grateful for each of you.
Employee Spotlight - Tabitha Griffin
Tabitha has been employed with AHA since 2023. Tabitha serves as our Executive Business Administrator where she provides high-level, diverse, comprehensive administrative support to the CEO. Tabitha also oversees aspects of public relations, product branding and marketing compliance, Board and affiliate administration, IT, spearheads special events, grant writing and other high level executive administrative functions. Tabitha, thank you for all you do. We appreciate your contributions, and we are glad you are here!
Shout out to Sylvia Impson for regularly keeping an eye out on the extreme weather
Finance, Procurement and Employment
The AHA's office is closed on Fridays. Observed holidays that fall on Friday or Saturday will be
observed on the preceding Thursday. Observed holidays that fall on Sunday will be observed on
the following Monday.
Columbus Day - October 12th
Veterans Day - November 11th
Thanksgiving - November 25-26th
CURRENT OPENINGS:
No current openings
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:
BCBS medical benefits BCBS dental benefits Group life insurance State retirement Supplemental Insurance Annual leave Sick leave Paid holidays Career Incentive Program Four-day work week (Monday - Thursday)
Learn about future openings by visiting our Careers page at www.auburnhousingauth.org.
FINANCE/ACCOUNTS PAYABLE - In an effort to increase efficiency and reduce processing time, AHA is converting to an online system for all finance department programs. A part of the conversion implementation includes processing Accounts Payable payments through ACH transfers. AHA will begin notifying vendors about the upcoming conversion and provide additional information on how vendors can begin receiving their payments through ACH instead of paper checks. If you are a current vendor with AHA and would like to begin receiving payments for invoices by ACH Transfer, email Richetta Stephens, AHA Accountant, at rstephens@auburnhousingauth.org to request a Vendor Direct Deposit Sign-Up Form. Complete the Direct Deposit Sign-Up Form and return it to the Finance Department and we can set you up for ACH payment.
In addition to ACH payments, AHA will begin coordinating with vendors to start sending/receiving invoices electronically. If you are a current vendor with AHA and would like to submit your invoices electronically instead of mailing a paper copy, you can email the invoice to accountspayable@auburnhousingauth.org.
The AHA Accountant monitors the email account for receipt of submitted invoices and forwards the invoices for approval and processing. Electronic submission of invoices reduces processing time by eliminating delays caused by mailing paper copies through the US Postal Service.
Future implementation plans include the creation of a vendor portal allowing vendors to submit invoices, check on payment status, and download 1099s. If you are a current vendor partnering with AHA and would like more information related to ACH payments or electronic transmission of invoices, you can contact the Finance Department for more information. Richetta Stephens, AHA Accountant, can provide additional information and can be reached at (334) 821-2262, Extension 228, or by email at rstephens@auburnhousingauth.org.
PROCUREMENT- To accomplish our mission of providing affordable housing, it is imperative that AHA works with vendors and contractors who can deliver the highest quality of goods and services at the best value. In order to maximize its contracting dollars, AHA looks for as much competition as the open market will provide. We are always looking for new qualified vendors.
AHA is currently processing bids for roofing services for the Auburn and Roanoke sites. In addition, AHA is preparing a bid for FSS Coordinator Services to procure services to administer the Family Self-Sufficiency Program for Auburn Housing Authority. Expiring contracts expected to be procured in the next few months include competitive procurements for Fee Accounting Services, Auditing Services, and Lawn Maintenance at all AHA Sites.
Future procurements for AHA may include services for plumbing, tree removal, and establishing a pool of vendors to supply maintenance materials when needed. Make sure that you register under the e- procurement site to ensure you receive notifications when related bids open for procurement. Learn more about becoming a vendor, current solicitations, and procurement guidelines by visiting www.auburnhousingauth.org/procurement.
E-PROCUREMENT- In an effort to improve our communication with our vendors, reduce administrative costs, and streamline our procurement process, AHA conducts most of its competitive solicitations on the e- Procurement Marketplace site. Please be advised that AHA absorbs all costs for using this Marketplace; therefore, there will not be any additional charges to your firm to use this Marketplace site if you desire to respond to a published procurement solicitation. To take part in the e-procurement process, please follow these instructions:
1.Access ha.economicengine.com (no "www"). 2.Click on the "login" button on the upper left side (for registered users)
or 3.Click the "Sign up as a Vendor" button on the lower left side (for non-
registered users). 4.Follow the listed directions.
If you have any problems accessing or registering on the Marketplace, please contact customer support at (866) 526-9266.
Health & Medical Awareness Partnership Partner Spotlight
The Auburn Housing Authority (AHA) Food Pantry partnered with Auburn University and the Healthcare and Education Clinic to provide residents with valuable health and medical awareness information while they shopped for groceries at the AHA Food Pantry.
Our guest representative, Valerie Epps, provided participants with helpful health-related information, resources, and education designed to encourage residents to become more informed and proactive about their overall health and wellness. Combining health education into the Food Pantry created an opportunity to help our participants address multiple needs in one convenient location, while providing access to nutritious food while also connecting families with important health information and community resources.
This partnership was a commitment to taking a holistic approach to help bridge the gap between healthcare and education. By bringing community partners directly to residents of Lee County during existing services and programs, help reduce barriers to accessing information while creating opportunities for education, prevention, and healthier decision-making.
AHA Awards & Recognitions
Congratulations to the Auburn Housing Authority for receiving the Alabama Association of Housing & Redevelopment Authorities (AAHRA) Newsletter of the Year Award (Medium PHA) at the 86th Annual Conference in Panama City Beach, Florida.
Commissioners Nolan Torbert, Deborah Hand, Marguerite White, and Barbara Leverett (LHA) and staff in attendance accepted the award. This award means a lot to us because each season, we put this newsletter together to help residents stay informed about important updates, upcoming events and resources they can use. Keeping residents informed is part of our commitment to the communities we serve, and we're proud to see that work recognized.
86th Annual AAHRA Conference
Auburn (AHA) and LaFayette (LHA) Housing Authority staff and Commissioners recently attended the 86th Annual AAHRA-Alabama Association of Housing & Redevelopment Authorities Conference in Panama City Beach, Florida.
Our team participated in training sessions, connected with housing professionals from across Alabama, and brought home resources and information we can put to work right away in our communities.
About the Resident Advisory Board
The role of the Resident Advisory Board is to review AHA's HUD 5 Year Plan and Annual Plans. RAB members are considered the spokespersons for the residents served by AHA.
Current AHA Resident Advisory Board members are:
- Marquitta Floyd
- Mary Jane Guy
- Paula Holloway
- Mark Holifield
- Janice Hutchinson
We are seeking passionate resident representatives for the Ridgecrest and Drake communities, as well as the Tenant Based Voucher (TBV) Program.
This is a great opportunity to represent your community and make a difference.
If you're interested in being considered for this role, please reach out to Todd James at tjames@auburnhousingauth.org.
Resident Advisory Board Requirements
- Must be in good standing with the Housing Authority.
- Available to attend monthly meetings and represent the authority at events.
- Commit to making an impact in their community.
Ridgecrest Development Update
The Auburn Housing Authority (AHA) has been awarded Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) to support the redevelopment of our Ridgecrest community.
The AHA will partner with the Hollyhand Development LLC to redevelop fifty-six (56) units in Phase 1. This award is an important milestone that will allow us to make significant improvements and provide high-quality, affordable homes for our families.
AHA will redevelop the remaining fifty (50) units (Phase 2) after completing the 56 units included in Phase 1. We will share additional details about the timeline and next steps as information becomes available.
The photo is a rendering of the redevelopment.
If you have questions, please contact our Regional Property Manager, Dominique Moore, at (334) 821-2262 ext. 242 or dmoore@auburnhousingauth.org.
Rising Stars: Achievements and Updates
Supporting Student Success
Auburn Housing Authority is committed to helping students succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
During the 2025-2026 school year, AHA provided $6,350 in laptop fee assistance for 127 students, helping ensure they had access to the technology needed for academic success.
Laptop Fee Assistance for 2026-2027
Residents needing assistance with school laptop fees for the upcoming school year should contact Todd James, Resident Services Coordinator.
Class of 2027 Graduate Services
AHA offers support to graduating seniors through a variety of educational assistance programs, including:
- Laptop Fees
- ACT Fees
- Scholarships
- Athletic Fees
- Cap and Gown Fees
- Project Graduation Fees
- Graduation Reception
Each May, AHA hosts a Graduation Reception to celebrate and recognize graduating seniors and their accomplishments.
Scholarships
Students are encouraged to explore available scholarship programs, including:
- AHA Scholarship
- PHADA Scholarship
- AHAEEF Scholarship
- HAI Scholarship
These scholarships and more are available in the College Resources section of our website.
Upcoming Opportunities
- Camp Y.E.S.
- Back to School Supply Giveaways
Watch for registration information and upcoming program announcements.
Contact Information
If you have questions regarding Resident Services programs or services, please contact:
Todd James Resident Services Coordinator
Phone: (334) 821-2262 ext. 230
Email: tjames@auburnhousingauth.org
Share Your Child's Success
Has your child received an academic award, Honor Roll recognition, athletic achievement, scholarship, leadership award, or other school accomplishment?
We want to celebrate their success.
Send student accomplishments to:
tjames@auburnhousingauth.org
Resident Spotlight - Barbara Flood
The Auburn Housing Authority proudly congratulates Barbara M. Flood on a remarkable educational achievement. Barbara recently earned her High School Diploma through the Southern Union State Community College Adult Education Program, demonstrating perseverance, determination, and a commitment to creating a brighter future for herself and her growing family.
As an expectant mother, Barbara has shown that life's responsibilities do not have to stand in the way of pursuing personal and educational goals. Her dedication serves as an inspiring example of resilience and the importance of lifelong learning.
Looking ahead, Barbara plans to continue her education by pursuing a career in Medical Billing or Social Work, where she hopes to make a meaningful difference while building a stable and successful future for her family.
The Auburn Housing Authority celebrates Barbara's accomplishment and wishes her continued success as she begins this exciting new chapter.
Annual Employee Meeting
Our Auburn, LaFayette and Roanoke teams spent the day together for our Annual Employee Meeting. We talked about what's happening across our agencies, some of the things we've accomplished and what we want to keep working on in the coming year.
Days like this also give us something we don't get very often, time with the people we work alongside throughout the year. It was good to catch up, share a few laughs and enjoy the day together. We're thankful for this team and the work they do every day.
Free Community Wi-Fi
All Auburn Housing Authority communities now have free Wi-Fi available in every unit.
Spectrum has provided instructions to all residents on how to connect to the Wi-Fi.
If you have any questions, please contact:
Dominique Moore Regional Property Manager
Email: dmoore@auburnhousingauth.org
Phone: 334-821-2262 ext. 242
Landlord Corner
Auburn Housing Authority would like to say thank you to all of our landlords.
Landlords provide housing opportunities to participants in our Tenant Based Voucher (TBV) Program.
Without our landlords' commitment and partnership, AHA would not be able to provide many of the services we offer.
Address Change
If you move, remember to report your new address to our office in writing.
Also report anticipated changes of ownership as soon as possible. You must advise us before you sell the property rented to a voucher holder.
There is paperwork that must be completed to adjust ownership and rental assistance.
Report Changes
Participants in the Housing Choice Voucher Program are required to submit all changes in writing within 10 calendar days.
These changes may include:
- Loss of employment
- New employment
- Updated phone numbers
- Updated email addresses
- Changes in student status
Landlords who are aware of an unauthorized individual residing in the home should contact the Housing Choice Voucher Program Department immediately.
Updating household information is vital to keeping your Housing Choice Voucher Program participation in good standing.
Voucher size is based on household composition, and families receive deductions for dependents. It is very important to keep this information updated.
Lease Renewal
Landlords entering into a new lease during an annual renewal must provide a copy of the proposed lease before the tenant signs the lease.
If you have questions about the program, please contact the Housing Choice Voucher Program Office at (334) 821-2262 ext. 217.
Thank you for partnering with Auburn Housing Authority to provide decent, safe, and sanitary housing for low income families.
Housing Preferences
The Housing Choice Voucher Program offers housing preferences for homeless families and victims of domestic violence.
If you are receiving assistance from a homeless shelter or are a victim of domestic violence, you may qualify for additional preference points.
The assisting agency can provide a letter on agency letterhead confirming your need. The letter must be faxed, mailed, or hand delivered to the Housing Choice Voucher Program office.
Safe Communities
Do you know what to do if you suspect fraud or criminal activity occurring at a Housing Choice Voucher assisted home?
You can help keep your community safe by reporting suspected fraudulent or criminal activity through:
www.auburnhousingauth.org/contact
Our New Landlord Portal Has Launched!
The Auburn Housing Authority Housing Choice Voucher Program is excited to announce the launch of our new Landlord Portal.
This online portal gives participating landlords quick and convenient access to important information and documents related to their Housing Choice Voucher properties.
Through the Landlord Portal, participating owners and property managers can:
- View tenant information
- Access inspection results
- Review payment information
- Download 1099 tax documents
- Submit leases electronically
- Submit Request for Tenancy Approval (RFTA) forms
- Submit rent increase requests
- Access important Housing Choice Voucher documents
The portal is designed to improve communication, reduce paperwork, and make doing business with Auburn Housing Authority easier and more efficient.
For more information about the Landlord Portal, please contact the Housing Choice Voucher Department.
Available Landlord Incentives
The Auburn Housing Authority continues to offer incentives to encourage landlord participation in the Housing Choice Voucher Program.
New Landlord Signing Bonus
Eligible landlords may receive a signing bonus of up to $500 when leasing a unit to a Housing Choice Voucher participant.
New Landlord Referral Bonus
Current landlords who refer another landlord to the Housing Choice Voucher Program may also qualify for a referral bonus of up to $500.
Vacancy Payments
Qualified landlords may receive up to one month's rent for eligible vacancy payments between Housing Choice Voucher tenants.
Damage Claim Payments
Landlords may also qualify for reimbursement of up to one month's rent for eligible tenant damage claims when another Housing Choice Voucher family occupies the unit.
For additional information about these incentives, please contact the Housing Choice Voucher Department.
HCV Programs
VETERANS AFFAIRS SUPPORTIVE HOUSING (VASH)
The VASH program combines HUD's Housing Choice Voucher rental assistance for homeless Veterans with case management and clinical services provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). VA provides these services for participating Veterans at VA medical centers (VAMCs), community-based outreach clinics (CBOCs), through VA contractors, or through other VA designated entities. If you are a Veteran and wish to utilize the VASH voucher, please contact the Central Alabama Health Care System (CAVHCS) at 334-727-0550 or 800-214-8387.
MAINSTREAM VOUCHERS
Mainstream Vouchers assist households that include a nonelderly person(s) with a disability. This is defined as any family that includes a person with a disability who is at least 18 years old and not yet 62 years old at the effective date of the initial Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) Contract. Aside from serving a special population, Mainstream Vouchers are administered using the same rules as other Housing Choice Vouchers. Currently, AHA's Mainstream Voucher waiting list is closed. AHA will provide notice through a variety of media outlets when it reopens.
FOSTER YOUTH TO INDEPENDENCE INITIATIVE (FYI)
HUD's FYI targets housing assistance to young people aging out of foster care and who are at extreme risk of experiencing homelessness. The initiative offers housing vouchers to local public housing authorities to prevent or end homelessness among young adults under the age of 25 who are, or have recently left, the foster care system without a home to go to. Eligible applicants must be referred to AHA by the Alabama Department of Human Resources. If you are a foster youth who is about to age out of foster care and wish to utilize the FYI voucher, please contact the Alabama Department of Human Resources at (334) 242-1310.
Homeownership, FSS and Emergency Housing Vouchers
HOMEOWNERSHIP PROGRAM
The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Homeownership Program allows families that are assisted under the Tenant-Based Voucher (TBV) program to use their voucher to buy a home and receive monthly assistance in meeting homeownership expenses.
The HCV Homeownership Program is available only to families that have been admitted to the TBV program. To participate in the HCV Homeownership Program, the HCV family must meet specific income and employment requirements (the employment requirement does not apply to elderly and disabled families), be a first-time homeowner as defined in the regulation, attend and satisfactorily complete the pre- assistance homeownership and housing counseling program required by AHA, and meet any additional eligibility requirements set by the AHA. If you are a current TBV participant and wish to utilize the homeownership program, please contact your caseworker.
Esmerelda Smith, HCV Caseworker TBV Ph.: (334) 821-2262 ext. 224 Email: esmith@auburnhousingauth.org
Rachel Harris, FSS Coordinator Ph.: (334) 821-2262 ext. 259 Email: rharris@auburnhousingauth.org
FAMILY SELF-SUFFICIENCY PROGRAM (FSS)
Looking for ways to build a stronger financial future for you and your family? The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program at the Auburn Housing Authority is here to help residents reach their goals and create new opportunities.
The FSS Program is more than just a program-it's a partnership. Participants work with an FSS Coordinator to set goals, overcome barriers, and celebrate achievements along the way.
Program Benefits Include:
Personalized goal planning with the FSS Coordinator Connections to valuable community resources The opportunity to build savings through the FSS Escrow Account
Interested in joining the FSS Program? Contact FSS Coordinator Rachel Harris at rharris@auburnhousingauth.org or 334-728-4690 for more information.
EMERGENCY HOUSING VOUCHER PROGRAM ENDING DECEMBER 31, 2026
The EHV program was launched under the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Because of historic increases in rental costs over the past few years, the federal funds allocated for this program are being depleted ahead of schedule.
Current Participants Should:
Plan Ahead: There is no guarantee of automatic program extensions or direct transfers to the regular Section 8/ Housing Choice Voucher program.
Stay Informed: AHA will share additional guidance and next steps as more information becomes available from HUD.
Explore Alternatives: Participants are strongly encouraged to begin exploring alternative housing options and community assistance programs to prepare for this transition.
In the meantime, please feel free to contact us with any immediate questions, Charlotte Bowen, HCV Manager (334) 821-2262 ext. 221 or cbowen@auburnhousingauth.org.
FSS Program Success
The Auburn Housing Authority is proud to celebrate the success of a recent Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) graduate! After five years of dedication, commitment, and hard work, one of our FSS participants has officially completed the program. Throughout her FSS journey, she worked toward her personal and financial goals while building a stronger foundation for her future.
As a result of her hard work and increased earned income during her time in the program, she is expected to receive an FSS escrow check of approximately $30,000 upon graduation.
This accomplishment is a wonderful example of what can happen when determination, goal-setting, and the right support come together. We are incredibly proud of her achievement and excited to see what this next chapter holds for her!
Could the FSS Program Help You?
The Family Self-Sufficiency Program is designed to help eligible Auburn Housing Authority residents work toward greater financial stability and self-sufficiency. FSS is about more than simply finding a job. Participants work with the FSS Coordinator to identify their individual goals and create a plan to help them move forward. Goals may include:
-Finding employment or increasing earned income
-Furthering education or completing a degree or certification
-Improving credit and reducing debt
-Preparing for homeownership
-Reaching other personal goals that support long-term success
Every resident's journey is different. Whether your goal is to advance your career, go back to school, improve your finances, become a homeowner, or simply create a more secure future for yourself and your family, FSS may be able to help you take the next step. If you are an AHA resident and would like to learn more about the FSS Program, please contact Rachel Harris, FSS Coordinator, (334-728-4690; rharris@auburnhousingauth.org) to see if FSS may be a good fit for you. Your goals. Your future. Your journey. FSS can help you get there.
"GRUB & GRACE" FOOD TRUCK
The Auburn Housing Authority was honored to partner with Harvest Evangelism, under the leadership of Kenny Young, to host a free community breakfast outreach on Wednesday, July 15, in our Moton Community. Using Harvest Evangelism's food truck, volunteers prepared and served free hot, freshly cooked breakfast to residents, creating an opportunity for neighbors to gather, connect, and enjoy fellowship in a welcoming environment.
Families, children, and community members came together to share a meal while building stronger relationships and strengthening the sense of community throughout the neighborhood. This outreach represented more than providing breakfast-it demonstrated the power of partnership and service. Through the collaboration between Harvest Evangelism and the Auburn Housing Authority, residents experienced kindness, encouragement, and the support of organizations committed to investing in the well-being of the community.
2026 Back to School Supply Bash
On August 5, 2026 our Back-to-School Supply Bash brought the community together to help local families and students prepare for a successful new school year. We are extremely grateful for the dedicated volunteers and the local Order of the Eastern Star (OES) chapter who generously gave their time to assist with organizing and distributing school supplies to our families. Their support helped make the event welcoming, organized, and successful.
A special thank-you goes to the Auburn Police Department for showing their continued commitment to our community. Officers assisted with monitoring traffic flow, greeting families, and handing out school supplies, helping ensure the event ran safely and smoothly.
We sincerely appreciate everyone who helped make the event possible and pray all of our students a safe, productive, and successful school year!
Partner Appreciation Luncheon
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our 2nd Annual Partner Appreciation Luncheon.
We were grateful to celebrate with 42 of our partners, board members, landlords, and volunteers, along with members of the Auburn Housing Authority team.
Your support helps us serve our residents every day. Whether you're providing housing opportunities, connecting families to resources, volunteering, or partnering with us in other ways, we truly appreciate all that you do.
Thank you for being part of our mission. We are better together.
Mentoring Moms
Our "Designing the Life You Want" Vision Board Party was an inspiring evening centered on personal growth and setting meaningful goals for the future. Before creating their vision boards, participants were encouraged to reflect on their lives, recognize how far they have come, and think intentionally about where they want to go next.
Throughout the evening, participants enjoyed music, refreshments, creativity, and plenty of laughter. Meaningful discussions encouraged everyone to identify their top accomplishments, three important lessons learned, and three things they are most thankful for. One of the most powerful questions of the evening was: "What does success mean to you?" This encouraged participants to define success for themselves and envision the life they truly want to create.
The evening also gave us an opportunity to celebrate the educational achievements of two recent graduates, Barbara Flood and Jakena Dowdell, recognizing their hard work and commitment to building brighter futures.
To close out the celebration, everyone in attendance had a chance to win exciting prizes, including a $100 gift card and wireless earbuds. Congratulations to our grand prize winner, Caroline Pendleton!
Marvelous Mondays
Our Marvelous Mondays program for our seniors, recently hosted a fun and engaging Sip N Paint event that brought residents together for an afternoon of creativity, fellowship, and relaxation. Residents enjoyed painting their own canvases while sipping refreshments in a fun and encouraging environment designed to promote wellness, self-expression, and community connection.
Residents of all skill levels embraced the opportunity to explore their artistic talents, creating a variety of unique paintings that reflected their individual creativity and personalities. Throughout the event, participants encouraged one another, shared conversations, and celebrated each other's progress, creating an atmosphere filled with laughter, support, and positive energy.
Beyond painting, the event served as an opportunity to strengthen relationships among residents, reduce stress, and encourage healthy social engagement. Events like Sip N Paint helps to demonstrate ongoing commitment to providing resident enrichment activities that foster confidence, creativity, and a stronger sense of community.
The event was a wonderful success, and participants expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to learn something new while spending quality time with their neighbors.
Auburn Housing Authority looks forward to offering more interactive and enriching events that continue to inspire, connect, and empower our residents.
Community Events
Auburn Housing Authority was proud to participate in the 2026 Auburn National Night Out! We enjoy being part of this annual community event that brings neighbors, local agencies, and families together in the spirit of unity and safety. It was good to spend time with residents and connect with the people who serve our community.
Human Resources Director, Angel Long, attended the Alabama Society for Human Resources Conference in Point Clear, Alabama where the theme was All Hands on Deck! Attendees gained insight from top industry leaders, explored innovative HR strategies, and connected with peers who are also driving transformation in their organizations.
Resident Corner
The Auburn Housing Authority's (AHA) mission is to provide safe, decent, and affordable housing for families. The AHA's Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program is funded by the federal government and AHA must comply with the Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) regulations and AHA's internal policies and procedures. AHA encourages families to comply with the following requirements to maintain their housing assistance.
- Comply with your annual recertification requirements and submit the requested information by the deadline.
- Report all changes in income and household composition.
- Comply with your landlord's dwelling lease.
- Comply with all written requests that are submitted by the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Department and forward the requested information by the deadline.
Not complying with the requirements above may result in the termination of your assistance or eviction. The list above is not all-inclusive.
If you have questions about your HCV assistance, please contact the HCV Department at (334) 821-2262, option 5. ALL locations stop taking rent at 4:30 p.m. on the last business day of
Smoking is NOT permitted inside the unit. See the Smoke-Free Policy that's included as an addendum to your lease for more information.
UPCOMING EVENTS
- Food Pantry Open!
- Tuesdays from 8-10 AM Thursdays from 2-4 PM Boykin Community Center
- AHA Fall Festival
- Oct 15th - 4 PM Ridgecrest Community Center
- Marvelous Mondays
- Nov 2nd - 2 PM Porter Community Center
- Thanksgiving Farmers Market
- Nov 23rd - 2 - 4 PM 931 Booker St., Auburn
- Senior Christmas Luncheon
- Dec 17th - 11 AM Country BBQ & Catering
Dates are subject to change.
Visit our website calendar for more information!
Tenants are encouraged to frequently visit the office to stay informed about updates to the ban list.
Residents are encouraged to obtain rental insurance. Rental insurance helps to protect your belongings after a covered loss.
HCV Notice
Converting to an Online System
Auburn Housing Authority's Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program is converting to an online format for all applications and recertifications. All future applications and recertifications must be completed using the new online portal for HCV. The online portal will allow applicants and participants to enter their current information online and upload any documents needed directly through the portal.
In addition, once HCV staff has completed processing the application or recertification, all required documents can be sent for signature and returned by email. The conversion to the online format will allow faster processing time and eliminate the need to schedule appointments for applicants or participants to meet with their case managers. We are attempting to streamline the online process to make things easier for our families and to provide the best service with quick response times.
Applicant Information
Once your application has been received and accepted by HCV, applicants will need to register for an online applicant account which will enable applicants to update their information and check their current status on the waiting list.
To register for an online applicant account, applicants will access the online portal through the following links, depending on which Voucher Type the applicant applied for:
Tenant Based Vouchers https://apps.auburnhousingauth.org/UserCreateAcct.aspx
Project Based Vouchers located in Auburn https://apps.auburnhousingauth.org/UserCreateAcct.aspx
Project Based Vouchers located in LaFayette https://lha.auburnhousingauth.org/UserCreateAcct.aspx
After accessing the online portal at the correct link above, select "APPLICANT" as the Registrant type and complete the requested information to create the online account.
Once the online applicant account is created, applicants will need to make sure they update their contact information through the portal to ensure they are notified once their application is selected for processing. In addition, the online portal will enable applicants to securely upload all required documentation and forms.
If you or anyone in your family is a person with disabilities or requires a reasonable accommodation to fully utilize Auburn Housing Authority's programs and services, feel free to contact your assigned case manager, or you may contact the HCV Department at (334) 821-2262, extension 217.
Policy Reminder
AHA is committed to providing all residents with safe, decent, and sanitary housing and ensuring that all residents have the right to peaceful enjoyment of their apartment. As a part of this commitment, AHA has implemented weekly property assessments. As a result, AHA requests residents' assistance in addressing frequently observed issues. (Please note all residents agree to abide by this policy upon signing a lease. Failure to do so can lead to fines and eviction.)
- No parking on or driving across the grass is permitted at any time.
- Before bringing a pet and/or service animal home, you must contact AHA's office. AHA has no pet visitation policy.
- All smoke detectors inside the home must be operable. Residents should contact the office to request batteries for all beeping smoke detectors. Smoke detectors should not be tampered with, removed, disconnected, or covered.
Contact Regional Property Manager Dominique Moore at 334-821-2262 ext. 242 or dmoore@auburnhousingauth.org with questions.
Drug/Crime Eviction Policy
The Board of Commissioners of the Housing Authority and Landlord, in an effort to take a positive stand against the sale and use of illegal drugs and other crimes on Landlord or Housing Authority property, hereby adopts and endorses the following policy.
I.
Any person, regardless of age, arrested on Housing Authority (HA) or Landlord's property for possession, use, or sale of drugs or any unlawful act that threatens the peace and security of the tenants, general public, or HA staff, who is not listed as a family member on any lease of Landlord's property, will immediately be issued a letter of "No Trespassing."
II.
Any person arrested on Landlord or Housing Authority property for possession, use, or sale of drugs or any unlawful act that threatens the peace and security of the tenants, general public, or HA staff, who is listed as a family member on a lease of Landlord or Housing Authority owned property and is under the age of 19, will immediately be required to attend counseling.
Requirements include:
- The Head of Household and all family members must sign a statement acknowledging the counseling session and acknowledging that another occurrence may result in termination of the lease.
- The arrested family member must agree to and attend an HA-approved counseling or rehabilitation program. HA will verify attendance and completion.
- Failure to comply with these requirements may result in immediate termination of the dwelling lease.
III.
Any person age 19 or older who is arrested on Housing Authority property for possession, use, or sale of drugs or any unlawful act that threatens the peace and security of tenants, the general public, or HA staff, and who is listed as a family member on the lease, will immediately receive a letter requiring the leaseholder and arrested individual to attend counseling.
Requirements include:
- Removal of the arrested individual from the lease.
- Agreement allowing the landlord or HA to issue a No Trespassing letter.
- If the No Trespassing order is violated and remaining family members contribute to the violation, the lease may be terminated.
- Refusal to comply will result in termination of the dwelling lease.
IV.
If the Head of Household or spouse is arrested for possession, use, or sale of drugs, the conditions outlined above will apply.
We Do Business in Accordance With the Federal Fair Housing Law.
Revision Schedule: Exhibit A.
Collection Policy (Excerpt)
- Rent and service fees are due on the first (1st) of each month. No partial payments will be accepted on or after the rent due date.
- If rent and service fees are not received by 5:00 p.m. on the sixth (6th) of the month, a Board-approved late fee will be added to the resident's account.
- Residents who fail to pay rent or make arrangements to resolve balances by 5:00 p.m. on the sixth (6th) will receive a Lease Termination Notice.
- Residents requesting a hardship must request the hardship before being considered late. Hardships requested after the last day to pay on time will not be granted unless a verifiable emergency exists.
- Residents remaining in the apartment after the Lease Termination Notice expires will be issued eviction papers.
- Residents moving out while owing back rent, repair charges, or other expenses should arrange to pay the outstanding balance or may face court action.
Exterior and Groundskeeping
AHA is committed to providing an attractive environment for all of our communities. Residents are reminded of the following:
- Dispose of all garbage and debris in City of Auburn assigned garbage carts. Do not allow trash to accumulate on porches or grounds.
- Store garbage carts at the rear of the apartment. Carts may be placed at the street the night before pickup and returned to storage the following day.
- Children and guests must conduct themselves in a manner that prevents damage to the interior and exterior of apartments.
- Roofs must remain free of litter, sticks, and other debris.
- Do not accumulate items on porches, in yards, or on other property premises.
- Inoperable vehicles are not allowed in parking areas, sidewalks, or on the grass.
- Bicycles and toys should be stored properly and not left scattered throughout the yard.
- Large items, including sofas and mattresses, must not be placed at the curb earlier than one day before the scheduled City of Auburn pickup.
Emergency Work Orders
For the safety of residents and maintenance staff, effective immediately, residents will not be allowed in the vicinity of maintenance staff while repairs are being performed inside AHA units.
Emergency work orders will be completed within 24 hours. If a situation is determined not to be an emergency, residents will be notified that the request will be processed as a regular work order. Normal work orders will generally be completed within three business days.
Examples of emergency work orders include:
- Broken exterior door lock
- Fire
- Loss of power due to mechanical failure
- Broken water line
- Loose or falling ceiling
- No heat (when the outside temperature is below 35 degrees)
To Request an Emergency Work Order
Emergency Work Orders: (334) 750-7910
Police or Fire Emergency: Dial 911