Innovative programs are increasingly necessary to provide working families the opportunity to obtain decent, safe and affordable housing. Since its community development efforts began, CSP has led an effort to resolve inadequate housing stock in Tuscaloosa and a number of rural communities. Family oriented apartment communities and opportunities for home ownership are important components of a stable community. CSP leads a collaborative effort to meet those needs in West Alabama. CSP also provides housing opportunities for families through the construction of new single-family housing, the rehabilitation of existing housing and the construction and maintenance of multi-family housing.

CSP prohibits discrimination in housing because of race or color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status (including children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians); pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18, or handicapped individuals.

CSP owns 15 safe and sanitary multi-family complexes, including developments designated for the handicapped and the elderly. Apartments vary in size from one, two, three and four bedroom units. Many of the complexes have large common areas for children to play or other community activities. The Property Management division maintains the developments in Tuscaloosa County. (The other developments are managed by different companies selected by CSP.) A staff member is on call 24 hours a day for resident emergencies.

Applications for apartments in Tuscaloosa are available at the CSP office. For other apartments, applications are available at that complex office. Applicants must meet income guidelines. Section 8 vouchers are accepted.

The following is the yearly income guidelines for Tuscaloosa County only.

Housing counseling services include pre- and post-purchase counseling, mortgage default and foreclosure prevention, rental counseling, home improvement and rehabilitation and counseling to the homeless. CSP utilizes budget and debt management, energy conservation and home maintenance information in the housing counseling process.

In the case of default and delinquencies, CSP first works with the clients to identify the source(s) of the problem and then helps the client search for resources within their means to correct the financial deficiency. When necessary, clients are counseled about avoiding potential eviction proceedings and/or foreclosure. CSP utilizes internal resources and services for housing clients, or refers clients to other community resources so that the family can make rent or mortgage payments. Housing counseling staff may help clients apply for occupancy and rent subsidies. CSP also provides counseling to tenants with regard to Section 8 and guidance in seeking alternative voucher housing, as needed.

CSP counsels on Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECM), also known as reverse mortgages. In order to obtain a reverse mortgage, one must be 62 years old or older, own and occupy a single-family home, condominium, townhome, or a 2-to 4-unit dwelling as primary residence. The dwelling must be free and clear of debt or have a small remaining balance that can be paid off with the reverse mortgage.

The CSP Affordable Housing initiatives provide a comprehensive set of services to low- and moderate-income households which include education and counseling. CSP emphasizes asset building by encouraging purchasing or rehabilitating homes.

Participants in the Homebuyer Education Program and the Lease/Purchase program attend weekly classes at CSP for ten weeks. Participants must attend an orientation class to enroll in this program. Orientation classes are held at 12 noon every Wednesday and at 5:30 pm on the first Wednesday of the month. Subject classes are held Thursday nights at 5:30 pm.

The following topics are covered: