Increased Freedom and Housing Security Through VASH

Originally from Texas, Richard traveled the world before finding his home on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. He has been to 49 states, all over Europe and the Caribbean, Cuba and Mexico.

“Part of that was Uncle Sam’s choice,” Richard said.

Richard served in the U.S. Navy as a boatswain for three years and worked as a truck driver after his military service. He faced challenges along the way including injuries and homelessness. Before learning about Alaska Housing Finance Corporation’s voucher programs through a friend, Richard was forced to live in his truck for almost three months.

Richard credits Matt, an employee at the Veterans Affairs office, with helping him enroll in AHFC’s Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing program.

Designed specifically for homeless veterans and their families, the VASH program operates through VA referrals and is available in every community that offers the Housing Choice Voucher program. The housing assistance program subsidizes the amount of rent a tenant pays their landlord, ensuring that the property owner receives their full rent each month while reducing the financial burden on the tenant.

“Everybody was real helpful,” Richard said, thinking back to the rental assistance application process. “Lenore in the office was helpful all the way through. She did the home inspection and made sure everything was up to code. I’ve never had a problem.”

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“They [AHFC staff] have all been helpful. They’ve done everything that they said they’d do. They didn’t leave me hanging anywhere.”

- Richard, VASH program participant, Kenai Peninsula

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After a career traveling the country and the world and a period of housing instability, Richard has enjoyed making his home his own and ensuring it’s a pleasant place to live.

“I keep it up, I don’t let it get dirty,” he said.

Reflecting on what affordable housing through AHFC has meant for his life, Richard said, “More freedom.”

Now that some of his financial burden is lifted, Richard has more time to pursue his interests. A hobby geologist, Richard collects blood agate, quartz, amber and petrified wood, walking on the beach a few times a week to look for these collector items. Richard is also known in his circles as an avid pie maker, which he shares generously with his community.

To others facing housing insecurity or homelessness, Richard said, “Talk to the right people, talk to Alaska Housing. If they can help you, they will.”

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We recognize that Richard's story is exceptional and some Alaskans may be in need of safe, quality, affordable housing. If you require housing resources, we encourage you to contact Alaska 2-1-1. This free, confidential resource can help you to locate assistance in your home community. Dial 2-1-1 or 1-800-478-2221 or visit alaska211.org.

To learn more about AHFC's rental assistance programs, visit ahfc.us/tenants.