Independent Choice Housing

The CHN Independent Choice Housing project is a non-profit (501 C (3)) company that was formed in 2006 to provide affordable housing in the community to people with disabilities that have very low incomes. Funding for the work of Independent Choice Housing is obtained from MSHDA and Oakland County Community Mental Health Authority grants. The basic idea supporting Independent Choice Housing was to help low income people make affordable payments on a mortgage that will create equity within the mental health system.

The median income for a one person household in Oakland County is $48,900.00, making an average monthly housing expense of $1222 possible. The average person with severe disabilities has an annual income of less then $12,000; creating a cost burden if their monthly housing expense is over $400. The Independent Choice Housing program makes it possible for participants to pay only 30% of their adjusted gross income on housing, including utility expense. Individuals or families are able to live independently in a decent, safe, and secure home. Easter Seals, Macomb Oakland Regional Center, and Community Network Services identify and refer individuals that could benefit from the Independent Choice opportunity.

Community Housing Network currently manages the property for three Independent Choice homes; two in Waterford and one in Madison Heights. The program can accommodate ten people and plans for future expansions. Currently, we have one opening in Waterford and one opening in Madison Heights. For more information please contact Chuck Bratton at cbratton@chninc.net.