Fourteen years ago, Stephanie Saunders and her dau-ghter Shavon were living at St. Barnabas' Mission, a sh-elter for homeless women and children in West Phila-delphia. Saunders was in despair, homeless and strug-gling to overcome her drug problem and raise her child.Her climb back into society was about to begin. She rec-eived a Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) from PHA.

Being able to rent an apartment helped Stephanie turnher life around. PHA's Family Self-Sufficiency Program(FSS) also assisted her while she worked to achieve herlife goals. Stephanie returned to school to earn her highschool diploma. From then on, there was no stopping her.

She continued to pursue higher education, and in May sheproudly received her master's degree in social work fromTemple University.

Two weeks before graduation, Stephanie also becamea homeowner and moved into her new home, also pur-chased with the help of the FSS program.

"I am blessed," says Stephanie. "I love my house. Ofcourse now I want new furniture and all the other thingsthat go with it." She is already planning to expand thebathroom in the home she shares with her 27-year-olddaughter Shavon.

Although she is thrilled to be a homeowner, she says

the process of purchasing ahome was, "the most stress-ful experience of my life."For seven years, Stephaniehad been building a nest eggto buy the house throughFSS. During that period, asStephanie's salary increa-sed, the government throughHUD deposited money forher into an escrow

(Cont. on Page 14)

Vol. II No. 6 (Issue 10) A Community Newspaper for and about Residents July 2006

PRSRT STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT NO. 1330BELLMAWR, NJ

From Homeless Shelter to Homeownership

“A prescription for dis-aster.” That's what SenatorRick Santorum calls plansby the U.S. Department ofHousing and Urban Deve-lopment (HUD) to changethe rules and dramaticallyreduce funding for publichousing authorities. San-torum made his commentsat a statewide conferenceat Wilson Park, hostedjointly by the Philadelphia Housing Authority and theHousing Authority of theCity of Pittsburgh, with se-veral hundred residents andemployees in attendance.

Under the HUD plan,housing authorities wouldbe funded at 78 percent ofwhat HUD says they need.In addition, centralizedservices would be reducedor eliminated. PHAExecutive Director CarlGreene says if the changesand funding cuts stand, hewould have no choice butto lay off up to 500 PHAemployees. Most of the lay-offs would come in central-ized services, includingmaintenance crews. Mr.Greene says that couldmean delays of up to 90

days for routine servicecalls.

The meeting held June12 at PHA's Wilson ParkCommunity Center, had adual purpose according toResident Advisory Boardpresident Asia Coney. "Wefeel it is important to makeresidents and employeesaware of these misguidedchanges and cutbacks fromWashington, and we alsowant to inspire everyone towrite and call their electedrepresentatives to expresstheir anger," she said.

(Cont. on Page 14)

Technology Helps PHA Catch Unreported IncomeIf you don't report all of your income to PHA during your re-

certification appointment, does it really hurt anyone?The truth is, it hurts a lot. It hurts your neighbors who

are paying their fair share. It hurts thousands of peoplewith little or no income who are on the waiting list for pub-lic housing. It hurts the housing authority, which needs therent income to keep all of its properties clean and in goodrepair despite cuts in government funding. But most of allit hurts YOU.

PHA is now using the latest technology to crack downon under-reported income. If you are caught, you couldbe convicted of a crime and be required to repay PHA forthe subsidy you received. You will also lose either yourresidence or your housing voucher and become ineligibleto receive public assistance or public housing in any state

in the country for three years.PHA has always been on the alert to find income

under-reporting, but today's technology has made it easi-er to track down unreported funds. During the re-certifi-cation process, PHA's specialists now use computers tocompare social security numbers of residents with data-bases from the Pennsylvania Department of Labor andIndustry and the Bureau of Unemployment Comp-ensation. Social Security numbers of city and stateemployees will also be checked. Any income reportedunder those social security numbers will turn up on asearch. If it is different from that amount reported at re-certification, an investigation will begin.

PHA also receives phone calls from residents, (Cont. on Page 14)

Stephanie Saunders

Funding Crisis Looming for Public Housing

When PHA residents pay their rent, it is important that theyreport their income fully. PHA is planning a crackdown onunreported income that will be costly for violators.

Grim faces reflect what’s happening in public housing. Senator Santorum (center)flanked by housing authority executive directors: Keith Kinard from Pittsburgh (left)and PHA’s Carl Greene (right).

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One thing PHA's home sales program has shown is that ifyou are interested in buying an affordable home, you need toact fast as new PHA communities go on sale. The latest exam-ple is the Martin Luther King development, just south of CenterCity. Homes went on sale there in February, and by April theywere all spoken for. "That's the same pattern we saw at GreaterGrays Ferry Estates last year, and also at Lucien E.Blackwell," said PHA's director of home sales, Linda Staley.

Staley says the good news is, "we're building more." Thenext phase of Blackwell will be finished next spring, and PHAwill begin selling those houses this fall. The Housing ChoiceVoucher (HCV) Homeownership Program may be an alterna-

tive, for working families in the voucher program who don'tearn enough income to qualify for a mortgage on a new PHAhouse. Under the program, families can trade in their rentalvoucher for a mortgage assistance voucher to buy an existinghouse. "These families have to go through homeownershipcounseling, have a decent credit rating, and have held a full-time job for at least a year," said Malvin Reyes of the homesales team. "If they're really interested in being independentand owning a home this is a wonderful way to make the move."

Anyone with questions about PHA homeownership pro-grams should contact the homeownership sales center at215-864-3260.

New MLK PHA Homes Sold Out Swiftly

Conserve Energy---Preserve Public HousingNew homes in Martin Luther King development soldlike hot cakes this spring. The attractive new commu-nity is located just south of Center City.

B.J. McDuffy demonstrates easy demonstration ofextreme rubber for drafty doors.

PHA currently spends a staggering $25 million dollars peryear in utility bills. As these costs continue to rise, utility sub-sidies are standing still. In fact, housing authorities nationwide-- including PHA -- are facing huge funding cuts from Was-hington.

It's no coincidence that PHA has chosen to launch the ener-gy conservation program at this time. During the official kick-off in May held at the John F. Street Community Center, PHAintroduced its slogan Conserve Energy - Preserve PublicHousing. Employees and residents chanted these words. No-body wants to see PHA sacrifice excellent housing, programsand services that residents have fought so hard for.

During the kick-off, the Energy Coordinating Agency (ECA)gave a presentation on energy conservation techniques. Thenonprofit group has been providing energy education programsto low income Philadelphia families for the past twenty years.

This demonstration was repeated at the first three sites to

participate in this program: Queen Lane, Liddonfield andWhitehall. The goal is to reduce energy consumption by 3 to5% at first. Twenty-five percent of the savings will come backto the residents in site-based incentives chosen by residentleaders, according to PHA executive director Carl Greene.

PHA is providing energy conservation materials as part ofthis program including: 1) Compact fluorescent bulbs (CFL's)work just the same as a regular light bulb but save 70 - 75%of the energy; they also last a lot longer (10-13 times longer-- properly used that's eight years); 2) extreme rubber is usedaround drafty doors and windows to reduce heat loss in thewinter and heat gain in the summer; 3) Reflector board is cutout and inserted around window air conditioner units so thecool air doesn't seep out of the window in summer. In addi-tion, the low-rise units at Queen Lane and Whitehall willreceive a programmable thermostat that will adjust tempera-tures to save energy at night while families are asleep.

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JUNE

June 9, Event: Senior Prom Location: Rosewood Caterers Time: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 pm

June 14, Event: Sight & Sounds Theater TripLocation: Lancaster, Pa.Time: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 pm

June 14, Event: Emlen Arms Open House Flag Day Celebration

Location: Emlen Arms Time: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 pm

June 15, Event: Father's Day Grilling and Chilling Location: Wilson ParkTime: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 pm

June 16, Event: Annual Rainbow Tea Location: Wilson Park Time: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 pm

June 20, Event: Senior Town Meeting Location: TBATime: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 pm

June 23, Event: Sounds of Summer Jazz Fest & Wheel Chair Race

Location: Wilson ParkTime: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

JULY

July 06, Event: Summer Health Fair Location: Wilson Park Time: 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 pm

July 12, Event: Senior Advisory Board MeetingLocation: Bentley HallTime: 10:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m.

July 20, Event: Summer Health Fair Location: Liddonfield Time: 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 pm

AUGUST

Aug. 08, Event: Coping with Aging and NutritionLocation: Bentley HallTime: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Aug. 23, Event: Medication Seminar Sponsored by CVS

Location: Liddonfield Time: 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

SEPTEMBER

Sep. 19, Event: Town MeetingLocation: TBDTime: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Sep. 29, Event: Medicare Part-D Presentation Location: Suffolk Manor Time: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 pm

OCTOBEROct. 04, Event: Fire Safety Workshop Series

Location: TBDTime: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Oct. 09, Event: Healthy Cooking Demonstration Location: Liddonfield Time: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 pm

Oct. 11, Event: Senior Advisory Board MeetingLocation: TBDTime: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Oct. 13, Event: Autumn Bazaar/Health FairLocation: Wilson ParkTime: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Oct. 27, Event: Atlantic City Bus TripLocation: Wilson ParkTime: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

NOVEMBER

Nov. 01, Event: Free Legal Clinic Location: Suffolk Manor Time: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 pm

Nov. 04, Event: Black & White Ball Location: Wilson Park Time: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 pm

Nov. 07, Event: Atlantic City Bus TripLocation: Liddonfield & Emlen ArmsTime: 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Nov. 14, Event: Flu ShotsLocation: TBD (Initiative throughout

the Authority)Time: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 a.m.

Nov.22, Event: Free Legal Clinic Location: Suffolk Manor Time: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 pm

DECEMBER

Dec. 8, Event: Senior Christmas CarnivalLocation: TBATime: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 pm

PHA Senior Programs Special Committee Meetings and Special EventsSchedules 2006 (Dates subject to change)

At This Senior Prom, No Diplomas Were Needed

PHA Honors Senior Volunteers on Luncheon CruiseAbout 60 seniors who volunteer at PHA senior centers city-

wide were treated to a luncheon cruise on the Spirit ofPhiladelphia in April to celebrate volunteer month. Thisvolunteerism fills two goals: it helps the senior centers runmore efficiently, and it helps the seniors feel useful and need-ed. "We all feel good when we're doing something unselfish-ly for someone else," says Edward Rudow, coordinator of vol-unteers at the Liddonfield Senior Center.

Senior volunteers fill a variety of roles at senior centers,ranging from setting the tables for lunch to taking attendance atactivities. "We try to promote volunteerism with everyone whocomes into the senior program by creating a number of mean-ingful jobs to assist the senior center staff," Rudow explained.

(Cont on Page 5)

Pictured L to R are: ‘Queen’ - 97-year-old JosephineDiGiovannantonio, Ray Welch - CEO Mercy HealthSystem and ‘King’ - 87-year-old Leroy Smith.

The kids may have their senior proms. But if you reallywant to know how to party take lessons from the people whohave had many years of experience. More than 60 seniors,some close to 100 years old, had a great time earlier thismonth when they celebrated their “For the Love of Life”Senior Prom 2006, at the Senior LIFE center at Greater GraysFerry Estates. And a full day of fun it was, starting with a lightbreakfast in the patio room, moving quickly to a morning sen-ior dance, and then into the Grand Promenade to the dininghall for the main celebration and awards.

“This is how our senior life is to be enjoyed, spending timewith friends and having fun. This is a celebration of life.”These were the words of Leroy Smith, an elder member of thegroup and longtime resident at Wilson Park.

Besides just having a good time, another reason for the sen-ior prom was to recognize seniors who have put so much oftheir time back into the community. Josephine DiGiovannan-

tonio expressed thanks for the LIFE center and the conven-ience it has brought to the community. “We needed this healthfacility that St. Agnes and PHA have provided. PHA maybuild great homes around the city but for me it’s family,friends and this one building that improves my life and makesmy senior years happy.”

The highlight of the afternoon was the crowning of theprom king and queen who are the two eldest seniors at the cen-ter. The honors went to 87-year-old Leroy Smith and 95-year-old Josephine DiGiovannantonio, who both won $25 gift cardscourtesy of Shop Rite.

The St. Agnes Living Independently for Elders (LIFE) cen-ter and PHA have collaborated to offer quality care for eligi-ble seniors who live in the community. The center promotesindependence and a better quality of life with an alternative tonursing home and hospital stays. Organizers say this is the firstof what should be an annual event.

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The recent annou-ncement by the SchoolDistrict of Philadelphiathat it reached agr-eement with the build-ing trade unions tooffer an apprenticeshipprogram came as verygood news to familiesin Philadelphia. As aresult of the agre-ement, more minoritieswill potentially be ableto enter the unions andrealize the middle-classincome that those jobsbring with them.

This arrangementwith the trade unionsis something we knowa lot about at PHA.We began our Pre-Apprenticeship Progr-am in 1999 and havegraduated more than450 students. Morethan half of those stu-dents have gone intowell-paying union jo-bs. Other graduates

have moved on to dif-ferent careers. Somehave even started theirown businesses.

The trade unionshave been very goodpartners with us. Theyknow when they getgraduates from thePHA program thatthese men and womenhave been well trainedand are eager to work.The program has beenso successful that con-tractors specifically re-quest graduates of our

program for their pro-jects. Housing autho-rity officials fromacross the countryhave visited our pro-gram to see how itworks.

Economic empower-ment is out there forthose who want to takeadvantage of the train-ing and who are will-ing to work hard. ThePre-Apprent iceshipprogram is our shiningstar in that regard, butall of our training pro-grams through ourcommunity partners

offer opportunities tobuild a better life foryou and your family.

We say good luck tothe school district.Reaching the agree-ment was a historicstep, but it's the onlythe first step. Ourexperience has shownthat success in thiskind of program comesthrough a constantcommitment to excel-lence on the part of thestaff and students whoare motivated to makesacrifices in exchangefor great rewards.

The Residents’ NewspaperPublished by: The Philadelphia Housing Authority

Editor: Anne MartinezExecutive Editor: Kirk DornManaging Editor: Tony West

Resident Journalist: Dawn McClary

(C) 2006 by the Philadelphia Housing Authority. No reproduction oruse of the material herein may be made without the permission of thepublisher. For Advertising info, call 215-755-2000.

Carl R. Greene

A Message from the Executive Director

Dare to Be GREATby Cpl. Daniel Richmond

"A person who doesn't cultivate his/her interestswill die of hunger." This proverb rings true in manyurban neighborhoods. Some of our youths live in chal-lenging surroundings. They are looking to fulfill basicneeds such as recognition, safety, respect, support anda sense of belonging. In order to meet these needs, stu-dents must be shown that they are not alone. Youthsmust identify groups, clubs and opportunities withintheir neighborhoods to cultivate and satisfy theseneeds, instead of joining gangs or participating in delin-quent activities.

The Gang Resistance Education and Training(GREAT ) program teachs teens about the benefits ofparticipating in community organizations. The youthsidentify organizations such as sports teams, PAL centers,skills for life programs, chess teams, double-dutch teams,drill teams, homework clubs and youth groups at theirplace of worship. The class conducts a brainstorming ses-sion on benefits of belonging to these micro-communi-ties. Their responses include: getting respect or assis-tance, learning a new skill, recognition, new friends, asafe haven, knowledge, and community service.

Everyone belongs to more communities then werealize, and we are all part of the school communityand our PHA community. Therefore, as members of acommunity, we have a responsibility to not onlyreceive, but to give something back through communi-ty service. This provides you an opportunity toimprove your community and stay out of trouble.

As the weather becomes nicer, tenant council mem-bers or block captains may request your assistance toclean your block or development. Lend a hand. Go tothe store for an elderly neighbor, read a story to youryounger brother or sister and treat your neighbors withrespect. The reward is a feeling of pride and a sense ofbelonging and a safer community. Get involved in yourcommunity and enjoy your summer!

Cpl. Daniel Richmond talks to students about goalsfor a life, free of drugs and safe from gangs.

The Healthy Homes Field Specialists (left to right)Gordon Polite, Robin Nelson, Supervisor LynnHercules, Barbara Hayes, and Brenda Behlin reviewprogram materials for residents.

Response to PHA's Healthy Homes Program has been sogood that it is now open to all Housing Choice Voucherrecipients.

The program, also known as A.I.R. (Asthma Interventionand Reduction Program) helps residents identify safety andhealth hazards that can lead to children's health issues suchas allergies, asthma, and lead poisoning.

"There are many asthma triggers, such as lint and dustfrom carpeting, pets, insects, mold, mildew, and smoke,"says PHA's Georgette Galbreth. "Also strong cleaningagents, insect sprays and other aerosol can sprays are poten-tial asthma problem areas. We are engaging in a comprehen-sive approach to reducing asthma attacks in our kids."

Galbreth says that carpeting is one of the most commonproblem areas. Residents who do not have vacuum cleanersmay not realize the impact on their families.

There is no cost to families taking part in the program.Tenant Support Services, Inc. (TSSI) hired two HCV andtwo public housing residents to inspect PHA homes. Theinspectors are looking for homes with families who haveasthmatic children under 6 years old. The inspections areeasy to conduct and only take about two hours.

Georgette says a mass mailing went out to all HCVhouseholds. As of mid-June, over 200 families had enrolledin the program and calls were still coming in. Residents whowant a field specialist to visit their home should call215-684-2190 or 215-684-5757.

PHA ExpandsHealthy Homes Program

Senior VolunteersGet the ‘Spirit’

(Cont from Page 4)"As seniors become volunteers they are committed to partic-

ipating in the senior programs," he adds. Each volunteer fills outan application form indicating their background, what they liketo do, and whether they prefer to volunteer in the morning orafternoon.

Edward says he has one volunteer who has wonderful hand-writing. She addresses invitations and other center correspon-dence. Another 92-year-old woman is a receptionist.Additional volunteer jobs include setting up tables for meals,serving coffee and cleaning up after lunch.

The volunteer lunch cruise "was a very joyous occasion,"reports Rudow. "We arranged their transportation and gavethem gifts.” We partied, had lunch and danced with one anoth-er. Although most of the volunteers know one another, seatingat the luncheon tables was mixed to include volunteers fromdifferent centers. "If they didn't know one another when theygot on, they did when they disembarked," quipped Rudow. "Ithink they really appreciated the gesture."

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James HarrisWhen James Harris retired from the

Philadelphia Gas Works, he hoped he wouldfind a way to keep busy.

As leader of the resident council at the Nor-man Blumberg Apartments for the past fiveyears, James has a full plate trying to keepeveryone satisfied. "Sometimes it's hectic," headmits. But every time James solves a problemfor one of the residents, he feels that his job isworth it.

When seniors move into a new home, Jamesnotes, they tend to keep to themselves insteadof trying to make friends. At Blumberg, Jamesand the residents' council plan regular events

such as cookouts and "Oldies But Goodies" music socials, and other activities toget people involved. "We try to establish a feeling of fellowship," he explains. Oncethe residents come to an event, they feel less isolated and more willing to social-ize.

James recalls that he became resident leader almost by accident. He and a fewfriends were planning a cookout for Labor Day, and the Blumberg manager sug-gested they form a resident council and have more organized activities. James wasan obvious choice for resident leader; he had served as president of the NorthernLiberties residents' council for seven years.

If being resident leader doesn't keep James busy enough, he also volunteers athis church and baby-sits for his grandchildren. James enjoys meeting people andhelping them. "A lot of people say 'what about pay?' It's not about pay; it's aboutmaking other people happy. I get a lot of satisfaction from that."

Carolyn WarrenCarolyn Warren is the Tenant Council President

for Herbert Arlene Homes, a role she began sevenyears ago. During her presidency Carolyn hasachieved many successes, and she is now recog-nized for her leadership throughout PHA.

When Carolyn began her presidency at ArleneHomes, there wasn't a place for residents to meet.Carolyn advocated for her residents who now have abeautiful office. Next, Carolyn worked on getting herresidents connected to the world through computers.Arlene Homes now has a computer lab open toadults and children.

Carolyn is also responsible for the Shared FoodProgram. Every month she picks up food that is donated especially for Arlene Homes,that she distributes to residents who are less fortunate.

Carolyn Warren is ambitious. She works in the evenings at Genesis Elder Care, inthe Dementia unit. In addition, Carolyn wants to help battered women, and is only fivecourses away from achieving a degree in counseling.

On site at Arlene Homes, Carolyn is pushing to start a Girl Scout troop. She's alsoadvocating for "Play Streets," a summer program, which designates streets that areblocked off so young people have a visible and safe place to play. Carolyn also wants toget a computer and creative programs started for the children to expand their minds.

When asked if Carolyn enjoys being Tenant Council President she says, "Yes" butadmits that she would like to become self-sufficient and buy a home some day. Shehas already attended PHA's homeownership class and says, "I'm on my way!"

In the meantime, Carolyn is dedicated to her role as resident leader and encouragesresidents who need her help to call (215) 684-5553.

Shirley SpencerShirley Spencer, Raymond Rosen's Resident

Council President, has been a community activisther entire adult life. She has served as presidentfor four years, was vice president for two years,and a board member for four years before that.

Shirley has lived at Raymond Rosen since1974. Back then the development had eight high-rise towers. The condition of the buildings was notgood, according to Shirley. So, she and other res-idents began making a little noise.

"Life really started when I moved to RaymondRosen. There was always something important todo, whether political, working with the residents or

working with PHA. My plate and my life became full."Shirley received special training with some help from PHA and was hired by an

environmental company that did lead testing on the old high-rise buildings. Later, shebecame a construction worker and was a member of Laborers Local 332. She helpedto rebuild Raymond Rosen. In fact, Shirley was on the remodeling committee thatwas involved in the design of the current site.

Shirley's career in construction was shortened by a stroke. But she now has a newcareer and very active life as president of the Resident Council at Raymond Rosen.

Spencer runs the Emergency Food Cupboard, is a member of the 16th Ward elec-tion board, works with the Girl Scouts at Raymond Rosen, and serves on severalboards at Tenant Support Services Inc. (TSSI).

Participation in the Resident Council at Raymond Rosen is good, but Shirleywould love for more young people to get involved. She says there are plenty ofopportunities for all.

You can contact Shirley Spencer 215-684-4705 or 4707.

Portia HarrisonPortia Harrison is in her second year as Pres-

ident of the Oxford Village Resident Council. As amother of five children and a grandmother of six,she is a strong advocate for the safety and uplift-ing of all residents. Portia draws on her profes-sional experience as a social worker while per-forming tasks that include: making referrals,advocating for seniors, mediating family issuesand intervening on behalf of residents when theyneed help. Portia also helps empower residentsto become self-sufficient, and encourages themto become strong role models for their children.

Harrison is not new to PHA. As a former resi-dent of Schuylkill Falls she knows the operationsof PHA well. Since she took office almost twoyears ago, Portia and her staff have accom-plished a lot. Working with PHA's staff, the resi-

dent council has renovated the Oxford Village recreation center, established a com-puter lab and set up a youth fest. She has also started a food bank that suppliesnecessities for residents who can't afford to buy groceries. In addition, as a memberof the 2nd Police District Advisory Council, Portia helps find new ways to keep resi-dents safe.

Portia's motto is, "We are not human beings having a spiritual experience, we arespiritual beings having a human experience."

According to Portia, this summer should be exciting for Oxford Village residents.Her council plans to set-up an activities program for young adults and will participatein the Power99 live broadcast on August 1st. If you live in Oxford Village and needhelp, information or service, then Portia Harrison is a person you should know. Ofcourse you can just call to say, “Hi.” Call her during business hours at 215-744-0775.

How to Get Your Personal Experience into Your Paper

Tell us about your "Experience" as a client of the Philadelphia Housing Authority. Simplygive us a call and tell us your story! Our paper reaches all residents including: TraditionalSites, Scattered Sites, and Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program. This is a goldenopportunity, so reach out. It's easier than you think! Call Anne Martinez at 215-684-8645or e-mail anne.martinez@pha.phila.gov.

People You Should Know

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Housing Choice VoucherFamily Self Sufficiency Program

OFFERING THE FOLLOWING SERVICES:EDUCATION:

GED CLASSESADULT EDUCATIONCOMPUTER CLASSES

EMPLOYMENT:JOB READINESS CLASSES

JOB PLACEMENTCAREER DEVELOPMENT

EMPLOYMENT & TRAININGPRE-APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

HEALTH:BEHAVIORAL AND PHYSICAL HEALTH

FAMILY HEALTH CARE CENTERGROUP FAMILY THERAPY

NARCOTIC ANONYMOUS (NA) MEETINGS

LIFE SKILLS:BUDGETING AND HOME OWNERSHIP COUNSELING

SOCIAL SERVICES:COMMUNITY RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT

& SOCIAL SERVICES (CRDSS)DOMESTIC VIOLENCE UNIT (PHA)

YOUTH PROGRAMS:AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM

YOUTH ART PROGRAMSUMMER YOUTH CAMP

215-684-4416

OFFERING THE FOLLOWING SERVICES:

EDUCATION:GED CLASSES

ADULT EDUCATION

EMPLOYMENT:JOB READINESS CLASSES

JOB PLACEMENTCAREER DEVELOPMENT

EMPLOYMENT & TRAININGPRE-APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM

LIFE SKILLS:BUDGETING AND HOME OWNERSHIP COUNSELING

SOCIAL SERVICES:COMMUNITY RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT

& SOCIAL SERVICESDOMESTIC VIOLENCE UNIT

CALL 215-684-3105 OR 215-684-3124

Public Housing Family Self Sufficiency Program

By Mia M. Graves If you received an e-mail recently stating that high school

students receiving a "Certificate of Completion" instead of adiploma would not be able to pursue a college education or aG.E.D, don't believe it.

The U.S. Department of Education has described the e-mailas a big hoax. The hoax e-mail claimed that the No Child LeftBehind Act (NCLB) had been revised. Under this revision, allhigh school seniors would be tested. If they passed the test,they would be able to receive a diploma upon graduation. Ifthey did not do well on the test, they would have to accept acertificate of completion. This certificate would certify thatthey finished high school, but it would prevent them fromgoing on to earn a G.E.D. or high school diploma. They alsowould not be able to attend college, any sort of trade school,join the armed forces, or even get a federal loan for education.

This e-mail created panic in many communities.In response, the Department of Education addressed parts of

the e-mail which were completely untrue. For example, thee-mail claimed, "At a high school in Indiana, in 2005, therewere 87 seniors in the graduating class, five got diplomas and82 got certificates of completion." The Department ofEducation stated that there was no such school in Indiana andthat the maximum number of certificates of completion givenout last year had not exceeded 29 out of a graduating class of385 students.

Further, the NCLB has not been revised since it was enact-ed in 2002.

Different states do grant certificates of completion to stu-dents who leave high school without receiving diplomas.Certificates of completion are not included in statistics thestates compile to show the federal government their rates ofgraduation, but the students who receive them are in no way

Certificate of CompletionE-mail Stirs up Community

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8 Community Partners Success StoriesBy Mia M. Graves

Leslie Scott was reading the PHA Experience lastwinter when she found an ad for daycare training.ABO Haven is a PHA community partner offering acertificate program that trains participants to starttheir own daycare center or work for an establishedcenter. Leslie was drawn to the ABO Haven program"because I felt the need to provide quality childcare inpoverty stricken neighborhoods." As a mother andgrandmother, she believes that it is important to sur-round kids with a loving environment.

Leslie began the 16-week childcare ProviderProgram. The intensive training required a four-hour-a-day commitment. Videotapes were used toenhance the course concentration in children'snutrition and behavior. Upon the end of the train-ing, students were expected to complete their

internship and move onto employment.

During Leslie's lastweek of training, whileshe was doing herinternship volunteeringat ABO Haven, she wasgiven the honor of beingoffered a job at the ABOHaven Daycare Center.ABO Haven considersLeslie one of their bestrecent graduates. Shehas been a teacher onthe staff at the ABOHaven Early LearningCenter for three months.

Cheryl King purchased her house at WhitmanHomes from PHA five years ago, after renting formany years. As a new homeowner, she had neverattempted repair or maintenance work herself. When-ever she hired a plumber or an electrician, she neverknew if they were doing the repair properly; now sheknows, for sure.

After completing the Home Maintenance Programfor PHA residents, conducted by the Jewish Employ-ment Vocational Services (JEVS), Cheryl feels moreconfident about making repairs herself or hiring arepairman.

"If something is wrong in the house, now I can do itmyself or at least call someone and tell him or herexactly what I need," she says proudly.

The 12-week class held at Orleans Technical Insti-tute (OIT) in Northeast Philadelphia covers almostevery aspect of home repair and renovation includinghanging wallpaper, tiling, rewiring and heating.

Cheryl took the coursewith her friend, Rita Smil-owitz, and they both feltthe course was reallyworthwhile. "I learned howto do the pipe work, underthe sink in the bathroom,and putting in new spigotsor fixing the showerhead. Ireally enjoyed it," Cherylsays. "After we took theclass, some of our otherneighbors signed up. Morepeople should know aboutthese classes." The class-es are free for any PHA

homeowner or renter. The next session begins August5th. For more information, call Dennis Zimmer at215-728-4725.

Years of standing on herfeet as a saleswoman tooka toll on Dawn Ziegler. Sherequired foot surgery andlost her job because of theamount of time shemissed work recovering.

But during this time,Dawn decided to set herfeet on a different path bystudying for her GED atthe CORA Beacon Cen-ter, one of the agencies inPHA's Community Part-ners Program.

"I feel so good aboutmyself," says Dawn. "Imade a decision to go in

a totally different direction."Not only is Dawn working to obtain her GED, she

is also training in medical billing at the Beacon Cen-ter, which will enable her to start a whole new

career. She is taking the courses at the same timebecause she can't complete her medical billing cer-tification without the GED.

Dawn says that it wasn't difficult for her to returnto school as an adult. She notes that she doesn'thave small children to distract her from her studies.

"I learned about the program through the housingauthority," says Dawn, who is a Housing ChoiceVoucher customer. "My daughter is 17, and she'sabout to get her high school diploma. I wanted us tostudy together and graduate at the same time, but itdidn't quite work out that way; I still need a fewcourses." Dawn's daughter, Markeita Humbert,graduated from William Penn High School in June.

"My daughter influenced me to finish school evenmore. She really motivates me," adds Dawn.

Does Dawn have any advice for people thinkingabout returning to school for a GED or further training?

"You've got to really get up and do it. You can't putit off," she says. "Don't let anything hold you back.No one can take your education away from youonce you get it."

Brenda Jones believesthat "courage is whennobody claps for you andyou clap for yourself." Shealso believes that herinstructor at MET in So-uthwest Philadelphia hel-ped her to "gain the cou-rage" she needed to goafter her goals.

Brenda, who is the mo-ther of three boys, dropped

out of school in the 11th grade. She says she just gotcaught up with the wrong type of people. Brendabecame a hair stylist and then worked in retail sales. Shemoved from job to job, hoping to find something better.

When Jones realized that the lack of a high schooldiploma was her roadblock to a better job, she decid-ed to take action. Brenda decided to take advantageof PHA's Community Partners Program, enrolling fortraining at MET. The company provides a range ofself-sufficiency services to PHA residents, includinglife skills development and career guidance.

Sherrie Davis, the Program Coordinator for MET inSouthwest Philadelphia, helped Brenda gain comput-er and research skills, and they put a plan togetherfor Brenda's future.

Jones decided to get her high school degree andenrolled in the Center For Literacy's Adult DiplomaProgram. The Center is a nonprofit organization thatworks in partnership with the Philadelphia SchoolDistrict. It took Brenda less than a year to completethe assignments and earn her degree.

Brenda says without the MET program she wouldhave never realized her goal. She says, "I just need-ed a mentor. Sherrie Davis showed me the way.Once she showed me how to research, it justseemed like my spirit opened and I was on fire."

Brenda was first in her class to receive her highschool diploma. She believes she is a pioneer for oth-ers who thought that, at age 50, she couldn't do it.Once Brenda finished, classmates at MET followedher to work toward completing high school.

Jones' next goal is to receive an Associate'sDegree in Behavioral Health at Community Collegeof Philadelphia. She has enrolled for the fall semes-ter. Ultimately, she wants to work with kids who havedrug and alcohol problems.

Brenda says her sons are very excited. Heryoungest, an 11-year-old, now says "and when I go tocollege." Brenda has been offered a job with Gauden-zia, a drug and alcohol treatment center. She willwork as a house manager, helping women in treat-ment, while working toward her degree at CCP.

Jones is looking forward to living life independent-ly, owning her home, and maybe even receiving abachelor's degree from Temple. In the past, she couldhave never imagined any of this.

"God has truly given me a second chance," shesays. "Thank God for redemption."

MET Success

Leslie Scott

Stepping Off on a New Path

Cheryl King

Brenda Jones

Grandmother Beginning New Career in Daycare

Anyone Know a Plumber? Now She Does!

Dawn Ziegler

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Thinking about expanding your corner lemon-ade business? Trying to put your chocolate chipcookies on the supermarket shelf?

Up-and-coming entrepreneurs between theages of 15 and 18 can learn how to succeed inthe business world at this summer's BusinessBoot Camp held from August 7-11. This intensefive-day training course is designed to teachteens the basic skills they need to set up andrun a business.

The program is open to all high school stu-dents, but only 100 applicants are acceptedeach year. An interview is required beforeacceptance. Hope VI teens are eligible forscholarships, plus incentives that have includedSEPTA Transpasses, lunches and a $50 giftcertificate for perfect attendance and goodbehavior. The deadline to apply to this year'scamp is Thursday, August 3.

"We have very interactive workshops,"explains Tamara Tucker-Anderson of TheEnterprise Center, which sponsors the camp."This year students will be writing a group busi-ness plan."

The extensive training covers everythingfrom networking to sales techniques. Studentslearn practical skills ranging from proper tele-phone etiquette and how to give a good hand-shake to how to survive the lean years.Previous camps have brought CEOs of compa-nies like Timberland, Nantucket Nectars andForman Mills to share their experiences.

"This is a wonderful program," says RylandaWilson, PHA's Hope VI Coordinator. "TheEnterprise Center is the premier business

incubator for entrepreneurship in the country."The camp offers a rare opportunity to make

new friends and network with business leadersfrom all over the world. Campers are encour-aged to sign up for The Enterprise Center'sAfter School Program to further develop theirbusiness skills. Tucker-Anderson notes thatstudents who have completed the After SchoolProgram have gone on to establish their ownbusinesses with the assistance of the center.

Even if participants don't go on to start busi-nesses, the camps' directors believe that

understanding how businesses work will maketeenagers better employees and communityleaders. The camp is part of a program calledY.E.S. (Youth + Entrepreneurship = Success).The idea for the course came from theWharton School's Small BusinessDevelopment Center at the University ofPennsylvania.

For more informat ion about BusinessBoot Camp or to receive an application,contact Tucker-Anderson at 215-895-4071or tamarata@theenterprisecenter.com.

Young People Learn How to Succeed in Business

Business Boot Camp students work on team project.

Philadelphia Public Record Columnist Denise Clay,standing left, welcomes prospective journalismtrainees, all Philadelphia Housing Authority residents.They’re seen at Public Record facilities learning first-hand what makes a newspaper tick. Those who com-plete the Public Record’s six-week course “BeginningJournalism” will receive a chance to write for ThePHA Experience. The Public Record prints The PHAExperience for the Philadelphia Housing Authority.

Our Readers Write the News

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The 2006 Summer Food Program beganon Monday, June 26th at 27 PHA sitesacross the city, serving a free breakfast andlunch to eligible children. PHA ExecutiveDirector Carl Greene said, "This programensures that our kids will not begin theirday hungry. Eating regularly and learningto eat healthy is important as a kid growsup."

All eligible children ages 18 and under areable to receive free meals through the Sum-mer Food Program, Monday through Fridaybetween 8 am and 2 pm. The programgained new popularity last summer when itbegan focusing on more nutritious meals andhot lunches. This year's program will pro-vide similar delicious pre-cooked mealsthrough a local catering company.

Kids who took part in last year's Summer

Food Program loved the new menu. Themeals were not only tastier, but more nutri-tious. Troy Robinson, PHA CommunityRelations Asset Manager says, "we're antic-ipating an increased volume of children tak-ing part in the program this year. We'vebuilt a reputation with our new menu!" Troyalso says that meal variety is important andno menu will be repeated.

The food program is made possiblethrough a partnership between PHA, thePennsylvania Department of Education andthe United States Department of Agriculture.Last year, this program provided over22,000 children with breakfast and almost33,000 kids with lunch.

The Summer Food Program will beoffered through August 18th. To sign up call215-684-1164.

Summer Food Program Underway

Officials from the Kansas City HousingAuthority were very impressed following athree-day visit and tour of PHA develop-ments and resident programs. They visitedseveral sites to get a first-hand look at PHAhousing and visit with program staffers.

Kansas City is recovering from financialdifficulties and has no self-sufficiency pro-grams for its residents. PHA was recom-mended to them as an agency with modelprograms. The group was most impressedby the Pre-Apprenticeship, LIFE andHealthy Homes programs, saying the equip-ment and facilities at the Workforce Devel-opment and LIFE Centers were like nothingthey had ever seen, according to the visi-tors.

Rylanda Wilson, PHA's Supervisor forProgram Compliance, says they gave theirguests "soup to nuts" instruction on success-ful grant writing. Grants account for most ofthe funding of the services and programsthat PHA provides to its residents. Applyingfor those grants can be difficult as well astime consuming.

Wilson says they told the Kansas Cityofficials that Tenant Support Services, Inc.(TSSI) is critical to PHA's grant writingsuccess. She says they stressed that this non-profit arm of PHA allows the agency greatersuccess with grant funding than otherwisepossible. In turn, residents benefit byreceiving a larger and more diverse programmix. The Kansas City Housing Authoritydoes have a nonprofit group, but it's under

the housing authority umbrella. Wilson saysthat makes some donors reluctant to givemoney.

Rylanda also says the way Kansas Cityand PHA run their homeownership pro-grams is different. In Missouri, the housingauthority is listed as a co-signer on the mort-gage, which means that the homebuyer isstill a public housing resident. That's nottrue for homebuyers in PHA's homeowner-ship program, which operates like the pri-vate sector.

"They were just astonished at how privatesector and professional PHA is and how faraway they are from being like us," Wilsonsays.

The Kansas City officials sent a wonder-ful thank-you note after they returned home.

"You all were a great inspiration," thenote said. "Thank you for your royal treat-ment of our Kansas City crew. You havemuch to be proud of, and we benefited fromour time with you all."

Alice Kitchen, a commissioner for theKansas City Housing Authority, signed thenote.

"I'm just glad that I work at the Philadel-phia Housing Authority," Wilson says. "Weprovide real assistance to residents. By par-ticipating in our programs and services, res-idents can really become part of the fabric ofPhiladelphia and the world. We give peoplethe real world help they need to becomeindependent, raise their families and do verywell for themselves."

KC Officials Impressed With PHA

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Ludlow-LiddenfieldSurveys Are Needed

Residents of Liddonfield and Ludlow Scattered Sites areurged to return their needs assessment surveys as soon as pos-sible. The surveys were mailed to Ludlow residents and hand-ed out to Liddonfield residents at a HOPE VI ResidentTraining Session in late May.

Rylanda Wilson, PHA's Supervisor for ProgramCompliance, says the surveys are printed in both English andSpanish and asks residents what services they need to becomeself-sufficient. For example, do you need job training, child-care, transportation, clothing or a driver's license?

PHA will provide customized services to residents ofLiddonfield and Ludlow Scattered Sites based on theirresponses. Forms are available at the management office forboth sites, where completed forms should be returned. If youhave any questions about the surveys please call (215) 684-4161 or (215) 684-3092.

PHA'S PRE-APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMfor details and application

for upcoming classes

Call (215) 684-8049

or (215) 684-8053

Street Center Mural Pays Tribute to Public Housing

The Philadelphia Housing Authority and the PhiladelphiaMural Arts Program have unveiled their latest collaboration, a64-feet-wide mural at the John F. Street Community Centeralong 11th Street in North Philadelphia, featuring a realisticdepiction of PHA's modern housing.

PHA Executive Director Carl Greene called the painting "abeautiful mural for a beautiful neighborhood." Greene said,"in the old days of public housing you might see a beautifulmural, but its job was to cover up something not so beautiful.

We're not covering up today. We're shouting out. We're say-ing to anyone who drives or walks by -- 'Hey, look at us. Lookat these houses. Look at this beautiful community center.'"

Mayor John Street, whose likeness is featured as part of themural, called the gesture a great honor and surprise. MayorStreet serves as chairman of PHA's board of commissionersbut the decision was made by others to name the building forhim and then place his portrait on the mural.

Mural Arts Program Director Jane Golden brought with her

yet another surprise, presenting the mayor with a specialmural arts commemorative "community garden" as a tribute towhat Golden called Street's incredible support for the pro-gram. She pointed out that Philadelphia boasts more muralsthan any city in the world, well beyond 2,500.

The Mural Arts program has produced about a dozenmurals at PHA sites. Both Greene and Golden said they hopeto do more.

The Nike Lifeby Dawn McClary

The darkness of fear causes us to be without doing.

The light of courage allows us to do that whichfear knew we are capable

of achieving.Just do it.

Dr. Sarita BattishPodiatrist Specializing in Senior Foot CareAvailable For House CallsSpanish Speaking Staff

254 S. 11th StreetPhiladelphia, PA 19107

Tel: 215-205-7706 Fax 215-925-4821

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Safe Nights Enliven Liddonfield

Scholarships for Blackwell Residents

Teenagers at Liddonfield Homes learn you're never too old for Simon Says. YvetteMoore leads the game at the Safe Night event on June 9th.

Children enjoy playing games like Simon Says and Musical Chairs during a raindelay at Liddonfield Homes' Safe Night event.

A sudden storm didn't dampen the spirits of LiddonfieldHomes residents who turned out for Safe Night event onJune 9th.

Instead, the resident on barbecue duty simply covered thegrills, and parents and kids moved inside the LiddonfieldSenior Center to wait it out. Kids of all ages enjoyed indoorgames in the center's gym, while burgers, hot dogs andother refreshments were served for everyone to enjoy.

"Our goal is to find safe, structured activities for ourchildren," explains Rose Bryant, Liddonfield Homes' resi-dent leader and the organizing force behind Safe Night.More than 50 children turned out, from toddlers to teens.

An hour after the event's start, the sun reappeared, andthe children were free to go outside for organized games andentertainment. The Northeast Drill Team performed and theNortheast Eagles, a troupe founded by singer Patti

LaBelle, also played.Two skits on conflict resolution were among the high-

lights of the evening, according to Bryant. "It was much bet-ter than I could have imagined. We had some real actors outthere." There were no fights or disturbances all evening,said Bryant. "It really was a safe night." Rose is working tofind a way to make Safe Nights a regular program at Lid-donfield.

Sixteen lucky residents have recently been awardedscholarships through HOPE VI funding aimed at revitaliz-ing the community. The funds may be used for tuition,institution fees, books, room and board, meal plan andother essential related costs such as transportation, licens-ing exams, memberships, and associations.

HOPE VI Scholarship Committee meets twice a year, inApril and August, to review and award grants to eligibleHOPE VI residents. Lucien E. Blackwell (formerly knownas Mill Creek) was awarded a HOPE VI grant in 2001 for$17 million toward community renewal.

Many relocated and new Blackwell public housing andHousing Choice Voucher residents are taking advantage ofthis program on their road to self-sufficiency. HOPE VIresidents are eligible to apply for scholarship funds to assistthem in reaching their goals for a better future. This is agreat opportunity for those individuals who are not finan-cially able to afford the full cost of college, trade schooland professional schools. Applicants must first apply forfinancial aid to PHEAA and for other scholarships andloans. The HOPE VI scholarship can take care of the bal-ance needed.

All applicants wishing to participate in this programmust provide the following:

• 1-page application form• Letter of interest that describes why you want a scholarship• Transcripts / Official Copy• School Acceptance/Registration Letter• School Financial Bills (tuition, housing, etc.)• 2 letters of support / recommendationEvery application is reviewed separately, since the

needs of one may differ from another. This is a rollingapplication, so if an application is received after the com-mittee has met, it will be reviewed the next time around.Awards are announced after the Committee makes its rec-ommendations. Call 215-222-1746 if you have questions

about this scholarship program. Applications can be pickedup and dropped off at:

Mill Creek HOPE VI CSS Program Office400 N. Busti StreetPhiladelphia, PA

RECIPIENTS AND AWARDSAaron Bartfield ComputerTheresa Maddox CHI InstituteCathy Black University of Phoenix Deborah Maddox Student LoansIrena Blackwell Rosemont CollegeKeia Rose Jean Madeline Aveda InstituteVernon Walker Church Ministry Mario Tyrone Davis ComputerNakian Thompkins ComputerCarolyn Howard Sallie MaeLynette Green Student LoansKaleema Dockery Cittone InstituteKaleema Bess Student Loans and school uniformsRaushana Williams Student loans, Drexel UniversityKhaira Scott Central Pennsylvania CollegeLatoya Knight Cittone Institute

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House PartyComes to PHA

Another summer "house party" is underway at PHA. Forthe third year in a row, Power99/FM has joined PHA to bringa series of live broadcast events now called the "SummerHouse Tour 2006." To keep you cool, PHA provides the tents.To keep the tummy happy PHA also provides the funnel cakesand water ice. Power99 provides the music, giveaways andprizes. TSSI Director Asia Coney says, "this is a wonderfulopportunity for our residents to meet and greet each other,receive information about the various programs offered byPHA, and have a fun afternoon." Last year hundreds of resi-dents won prizes. So far this year, the Power99/FM crew hasvisted two sites with four more to go.

You don't have to live at these sites to join the fun. Justbring yourself and be ready to have a good time. Power99event coordinator Lehronda Upshur says that these types ofevents are uplifting for entire communities. Radio hostShamara, and her crew will provide entertainment from 2:00pm until 5:00pm weather permitting. We look forward to see-ing you there.

Summer House Tour 20062:00pm - 5:00 pm

(Power99 music, refreshments and prizes)

Remaining Dates:

July 11th Haddington/Arch Homes (56th and & Arch)

August 1st Oxford Village (6150 Algon Ave)

August 8th The Spring Garden Apartments (Brandywine Street)

August 15thThe Lucien Blackwell Homes (46th Street)

by Cynthia Mayes, Resident Writer Chef Cyndy is back with more fun recipes for families.

It's summer, so let's celebrate with some warm weatherlight food. This is another recipe you can prepare with yourkids.

I'm sure by now you've discovered how fun and reward-ing cooking with your kids can be. Cooking is a practicalskill that can help us all develop self-confidence and self-esteem. Preparing food for your friends or loved ones real-ly makes you feed good.

Family meals and including children in social gatheringsis so important. Kids love to be included. They have achance to learn so much from adults including table man-ners, and the art of listening as well as speaking. These areskills your children will thank you for down the road.

As the weather heats up, relax and enjoy this deliciousand nutritious fruit salad. It will become a summerfavorite.

Mix yogurt, orange juice and cinnamon in a large bowlwith a wire whisk until well blended. Add remaining ingre-dients; mix lightly.

Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.Notes: As the summer fruit becomes available substitute

whatever is in season and well priced. Peaches and blueber-ries are on their way. No peanuts on hand, use walnutsinstead. Really working on your waistline before you headfor the beach, use non-fat yogurt. Not a fan of cinnamon -set it aside.

Editor's note -- Let's all say a prayer for Chef Cyndy whois recovering from an accident where she injured her footand ankle.

Fruit Salad: It’s LightHealthy and Cooling

The Family Fruit Salad

Preparation Time: 10 minutesTotal Time: 10 minutesYield: 4 servings 1 8-oz container Breyers Vanilla

Lowfat Yogurt1/3 cup orange juice2 medium apples, chopped2 cups seedless green grapes, halved½ cup Planter Dry Roasted Peanuts½ tsp. ground cinnamon

HCV Satellite Based OfficesRosalyn Sewell-Williams – Program ManagerBlumberg Development1516 Judson Way, 2nd FloorPhone #215-684-4374, Fax # 215-684-8080

Team ASouth Philadelphia Office 1172-1174 South Broad Street Asset Manager – Ana Cristina Lago(215) 684-3030 (Fax #215-684-3066)Zip Codes: 02, 03, 06, 07, 12, 42, 45, 46, 47,48, 53, & Hope VI

Team B West Philadelphia Office5207 Walnut StreetAsset Manager – Gloria Homer-Williams(215) 684-1448 (Fax #215-684-1366)Zip Codes: 04, 31, 39, 43, 51 & Hope VI

Team C Northwest Germantown Office5538-A Wayne AvenueAsset Manager – Elizabeth Downs(215) 684-3050 (Fax #215-684-3055)Zip Codes: 18, 19, 26, 27, 28, 29, 38, 41, 44, 50& Hope VI

Team D North Philadelphia Office642 N. Broad StreetAsset Manager – Carl McBride(215) 684-4376 (Fax #215-684-1023)Zip Codes: 05, 06, 07, 08, 21, 22, 23, 25, 30,32, 33, 34, 40 & Hope VI

Team E Northeast Philadelphia Office 4346 Frankford Avenue Asset Manager – Shane Manila (215) 684-1330 (Fax #215-684-1340)Zip Codes: 11, 14, 15, 16, 20, 24, 35, 36, 37, 49,52, 54 & Hope VI

Team F North Philadelphia Office642 N. Broad Street, 6th Floor Supervisor – Taheera Powell(Fax #215-684-4966)Areas: Scattered & Conventional Sites,Homeownership Multi-Team Support & Hope VI

Computer Technology Coordinator – Mr. William S. Brown – (215) 684-2685 or (215) 684-8660 @ JohnsonBlumberg Development1516 Judson Way, (23rd and Jefferson St.)Supervisor – Reginald K. Seabrook(Fax # 215-684-8080 @ Blumberg)

Neighborhood Network Coordinator – MonetWilliams (215) 684-4628)Blumberg Development 1516 Judson Way, (23rd and Jefferson St.)(Fax #215-684-8080)

Last year event, hosted by Power 99, was very popular

Residents of Wharton Homes enjoyed this year’s firstHouse Tour event on June 20th.

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Creative Urban Educational Systems is a non-profit Corporation.

conveniently located in the heart of Center City.

CUES has trained over 500 women in healthcare technology, specializing inMedical Billing/Medical Assistant Training, one of the top 10 jobs in thecountry, with an expected growth of 59 % in the next eight years.

We also offer courses in Computer Technology, Business English and Math.If you are interested in starting an exciting career in a lucrative, expanding,and growing industry call our offices at 215-569-1519.

CUES will be happy to schedule you for a site visit, ask for Ms. Waters.

Our offices are located at: 121 N. Broad Street 9th floor • Philadelphia, PA 19107

“YOU’RE RIGHT ON CUE FOR SUCCESS”

(Cont. from Page 1)account. Stephanie had been saving for a home throughthe Family Self-Sufficiency Program for five years andher time was running out. "If I didn't buy my house byApril 26th, I'd lose the money I'd saved."

Now that she has her degree and a house, she is enc-ouraging her daughter, Shavon, to finish her education

(Cont. from Page 1)Santorum told the audi-

ence he disagrees with theBush Administration overthese proposed changesand that he would be work-ing with his fellow sena-tors to restore fundingback up to the 100% level."I don't know that we havea bigger priority than mak-ing affordable housingavailable, and these operat-ing funds are critical tomaking sure housingauthorities can operate, hesaid.

Although Santorum seemed optimistic that he couldget the funding restored, it appears to be an uphillfight. The House of Representatives is ready toapprove the 78% funding, exactly as HUD has pre-scribed. In order to change this fate and restore fullfunding, the Senate would have to pass a dramaticallydifferent version of the bill, and then overcome Houseopposition in a conference committee.

(Cont. from Page 1)reporting that their neighbors are now working or aresuspected of not reporting income. That, too, willprompt an investigation.

According to PHA special investigator FlorenceNicholas, each case is evaluated individually. Some-times the numbers in a SSN have been reversed, result-ing in an incorrect reporting. But if fraud is found afterinvestigation, the case will be sent back to the Site Man-ager. Usually the resident will be advised of his/herrights and then arrested.

In two recent cases:A Housing Choice Voucher resident failed to report

over $150,000 income during a five-year period. Shepresented false documents that she had lost her job. Shewas found guilty of a felony and given seven years pro-bation. She was ordered to repay PHA $25,132 duringher probation in addition to losing her voucher.

A conventional site customer failed to report$100,000 income during a five-year period. She, too,was found guilty and put on probation. She was orderedto repay PHA $16,562 during her probation, and shelost her residence.

Nicholas points out that PHA takes these violationsvery seriously. "It may not be today or tomorrow, butwe will find you," she promises.

If you believe that someone you know is under-reporting income, call the PHA hotline at 215-684-8300or e-mail oig@pha.phila.gov. All information willremain confidential.

Hidden Income

Homeownership

Save Housing

Resident Leader Asia Coney, director of TSSI,speaks to residents.

Blumberg ResidentIs Dreaming Big

Twenty- four-year-old Nideshia Singleton says her kids areher motivation. She proved that this spring when she graduat-ed from OIC's culinary arts program and completed an intern-ship with Aramark.

Nideshia, who has two daughters ages four and six, paid forthe training out of her own pocket. OIC is tuition free, but stu-dents have to buy uniforms, books, knives and other materialsthat cost $200. That's a lot of money for someone with twokids.

While attending OIC, Singleton worked full-time as a certi-fied nursing assistant at a nursing home in Norristown. Sheplans to become a certified food handler and eventually a chef.Her dream is to have her own catering business and control ofher destiny.

"I have a passion for cooking. That's something I really likedoing," Nideshia says. "I like seeing how people react to myfood." She also believes that she's setting a good example forher children. "I want to show them that nothing should stopyou from doing what you need to do."

Nideshia Singleton

and become a nurse. "My daughter gave me a reason tolive and become the person I am today," she says.

Stephanie became a social worker so she could helpothers as she had been helped. "There have been a lot ofpeople in my life who showed me the way. You canaccomplish anything you want if you work for it. I wanteveryone to know that."

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