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Community Service

The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh, in compliance with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires all non-working residents, aged 18 and older, to participate in a Community Service program. Provided below are some of the more common FAQs regarding the program and its requirements.

By using the menu on the right, you may download copies of HACP's Community Service Verificiation Form and a listing of agencies who accept volunteers for community service.

Frequently Asked Questions (Expand All)

What if I receive income from TANF or SSI, does that make me exempt?

No. The nature of your TANF program or the reasons for your SSI income may qualify you for an exemption, but receiving income from these sources does not make you exempt. Also, the requirement is based on each household member. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will make the determination as to whether or not household members are exempt.

What if the HACP says I’m not exempt, but I believe that I am? What if I have done the community service but don't have the proper documentation?

A grievance process will be in place so that residents may appeal an exemption or eviction decision made by the Housing Authority. The documentation process is easy. You can request verification via fax, or in person by the community service organization. The Department of Resident Self Sufficiency can assist you with this process.

When do I have to start performing community service?

The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will notify you regarding the start of your community service.

Are residents responsible for finding their own community service work in order to comply with this requirement?

Yes. If you are not exempt, you will need to identify your own community service opportunities. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh will also provide a listing of resources for completing the community service requirement. This list will be available at your HACP management office or through the Resident Self Sufficiency Department.

Will The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh staff track service and assist residents?

Yes. The management office as well as the Department of Resident Self Sufficiency will keep track of your community service hours, based on the forms you fill out for participation and completion.

Do I have to do community service?

Unless you meet the exempt requirement for performing community service, all residents age 18 to 62 are required to participate in community service. This is a federal requirement for all public housing residents who are not working.

What if my rent is currently at the minimum rent of $150, am I still required to perform community service?

Yes.

What if my rent is currently at the minimum rent of $25?

This means that you are enrolled in the Housing Authority’s Family Self Sufficiency Program or other qualifying welfare to work program. As long as you stay current and active in the program and meet your goals, you qualify for an exemption from the community service work requirement.

What happens if I do not comply with the Community Service Requirement?

Once you are notified that you must begin community service, you will be expected to complete this service, keep a record of your hours, and provide the community service verification form to your management office. This will be discussed at each annual review. If you are missing hours at the time of your annual review, you will have the opportunity to make them up during the next year. If you do not make up these hours by the time of your next annual review, your lease will be terminated.