They opened waitlists for their public housing and housing choice voucher programs.

On Monday morning the Reno Housing Authority opened its waitlist for their public housing and housing choice voucher programs.

"What we do is encourage any applicants to apply to as many waitlists that may fit their family's needs," said Dr. Hilary Lopez, Executive Director for the Reno Housing Authority.

Those interested have until May 3 to apply for the waitlist.

The RHA keeps the waitlist open for a shorter period of time to try and ensure they can get people housing sooner, rather than later. 

"We try not to keep the waitlist open for an indefinite period of time because that just means someone can be on the waitlist but really without any reasonable expectation that they would receive assistance within the near future," Dr. Lopez said.

Dr. Lopez says they like to open it up when they can get someone in housing in roughly two years.

However, it's not a guarantee, as many factors come into play. 

"Depending on how fast units turn over or vouchers become available or different family needs," Dr. Lopez said. "Someone could move through that waitlist faster, or it may take us a little longer to be able to provide assistance."

The RHA says applying is the first step in the right direction. 

"While submitting your application today won't guarantee housing tomorrow, this is the first step of getting in line so that this way we can evaluate applications and continue to move people into permanent affordable housing through our programming," Dr. Lopez said.

Dr. Lopez also says that if you or your family is struggling and could use some additional help, no matter the income level, to apply anyway.

"I would hate for someone who may be eligible to deem themselves ineligible, just submit that application and work with our staff," she said. 

The RHA is working on many projects, to bring more affordable housing units to the area.

"Right now, we have several projects under construction including our Dick Scott Manor and Railyard Flats project in Sparks," Dr. Lopez said. "We are also starting additional new projects to preserve our public housing and add density in some of those sites."

The RHA reminds people that if you are accepted for the waitlist, if your phone number or address changes, to make sure you let them know so they can properly contact you.

If you wish to apply, their website is linked below.

Housing For Those In Need | Reno Housing Authority (renoha.org)