The Department of Resident Initiatives provides access to a continuum of programs, opportunities and events.
Circle of Friends
The Circle of Friends (COF) is an internationally renowned program that focuses on reducing social isolation among seniors. Started in Europe, this model is the first of its kind of be implemented in the United States via the St. Louis Housing Authority.
Senior public housing residents meet in groups (via zoom or in-person when possible) to discuss topics such as health, society, and other items of interest. In addition, the COF engages in activities such as luncheons and public outings. Currently there are seven (7) COF groups, including an all-male group. These groups meet on a weekly basis, mostly on Zoom.
The COF is a joint partnership between the St. Louis Housing Authority, Saint Louis University, and CHIPS.
For more information, please contact Marvin Bostic.
Elderly & Disabled Services Program
St. Louis Housing Authority provides access to services for all elderly and disabled residents living in public housing through the Elderly & Disabled Services Program. The program is designed to enhance quality of life and assist residents to continue to live independently. Priority is given to those residents who are considered “frail and at-risk” as determined by a needs assessment, counseling, and case management.
For more information, contact Marvin Bostic.
Family Self-Sufficiency
The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program was established to promote self-sufficiency among families currently receiving Housing Choice Voucher/Section-8 assistance or Public Housing assistance.
The family’s objective is to achieve independence and growth towards the goal of self-sufficiency. The FSS family will be required to fulfill goals within five years after starting the program. Support services, designed to help families reach their goals, include homeownership counseling, financial literacy, remedial, GED, or higher education, parenting skills training, job training, transportation, and mental health and substance abuse counseling services. The Family Self-Sufficiency program’s main feature is an escrow savings account.
Eligibility Requirements
- You must be a current resident of the Public Housing or Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program.
- You must be at least 18 years of age.
- You (or a designee) must be the head of household for the unit.
- You must not owe the SLHA for damages, and you must be current on your rent.
- You must sign the FSS Contract of Participation (CoP).
For more information or to enroll, please contact Vera “Renee” Wren (HCV/Section 8) or Sredrick Robinson (Public Housing).
ROSS Service Coordinator Program
The Resident Opportunities and Self-Sufficiency (ROSS) program is a federally subsidized program designed to help public housing residents meet their most immediate needs. Service Coordinators are available to assist residents with resources such as:
- utility assistance
- prescription assistance
- help obtaining food
- mental health and grief counseling
- employment services
- HiSet and GED
- other resources as needed
Service Coordinators utilize an array of services to connect residents to local agencies and providers including the United Way, CIE, and 211.
For more information or to get immediate help, please contact Kimberly Long and Kesha Post.
Al Chappelle Community Center
The Al Chappelle Community Center, a recreational center operated by the St. Louis Housing Authority, provides access to physical space for education, personal, and recreational activities for SLHA residents. The center includes multiple meeting rooms, classrooms for computer training and education, and a multi-purpose room.
