Angela Jimenez, City of High Point Housing Authority CEO, Turns Housing Into a Starting Point for Success
The Housing Authority of the City of High Point (HPHA) initiated the transformation of the Daniel Brooks Homes site, constructed in 1942, into Legacy Ridge. This redevelopment was made possible through $6.5 million in housing bonds approved by the City…
The Housing Authority of the City of High Point (HPHA) initiated the transformation of the Daniel Brooks Homes site, constructed in 1942, into Legacy Ridge. This redevelopment was made possible through $6.5 million in housing bonds approved by the City and an additional $28.3 million in financing. Legacy Ridge now features a mixed-income neighborhood of 100 multifamily homes, including amenities like a clubhouse, green space, playground, and picnic area.
HPHA was established in 1940 to provide safe and sanitary housing for low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities. Today, it manages 900 Public Housing units, 1,872 Housing Choice Vouchers, 101 Section 8 New Construction units, and 21 Permanent Supportive Housing assisted households.
The Housing Choice Voucher Program, administered by HPHA, supports 1,872 vouchers funded by HUD. The program includes regular waitlists, inspections, and income-based eligibility checks, with families typically paying 30-40% of their adjusted income for housing.
HPHA also invests in capital improvements, supportive services, and community-building initiatives. The HOPE VI Program facilitated the creation of Spring Brook Meadows, providing 44 senior units and 118 single-family homes, along with a YMCA and other amenities.
This redevelopment was made possible through $6.5 million in housing bonds approved by the City and an additional $28.3 million in financing.
HPHA's collaboration with Laurel Street led to the redevelopment of the former Clara Cox Homes into Park Terrace Apartments, a 250-unit development completed in three phases.
Angela Jimenez, the CEO of HPHA, has a background in public service, higher education, and military service. She has significantly contributed to HPHA's mission since rejoining in 2010 as its CEO. Her expertise spans HUD Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher Programs, tax credit compliance, and various property management certifications.
Programs for Stability and Self-Sufficiency
Family Self-Sufficiency Program: Families work with caseworkers to set goals such as improving credit and career advancement, utilizing an escrow account for savings. Upward Mobility Program: Offers resources including job readiness training and homeownership counseling. Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program: Supports first-time homebuyers with vouchers applied to mortgages, requiring income and down payment criteria. Youth Programming: Includes tutoring, art programs, financial literacy, and more.
The COVID-19 pandemic presented challenges, including decreased affordable housing inventory and increased rents. HPHA responded by issuing over 400 vouchers, attracting new landlords through incentives, and securing a HUD waiver for extended housing search time.
HPHA continues to focus on communication and support systems to maintain resilience during difficult times.
Based on reporting by TechBullion.