Housing insecurity affects thousands of individuals and families across North Carolina. The Continuum of Care (CoC) Program, a federal initiative, plays a critical role in addressing homelessness by providing funding and resources to local agencies and service providers. This guide will help you understand what the CoC Program is, who qualifies, and how to access its benefits in North Carolina.

What is Continuum of Care (CoC) Program?

The Continuum of Care (CoC) Program is a federal program administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) designed to:

• Address homelessness through coordinated efforts at the local level.
• Provide funding for housing, supportive services, and permanent housing solutions.
• Promote community-wide strategies to prevent and end homelessness.

Key Objectives of the CoC Program:

• Permanent Housing: Prioritize long-term stability through permanent supportive housing (PSH) and rapid re-housing (RRH).
• Supportive Services: Offer case management, mental health services, and job training to help participants regain self-sufficiency.
• Collaboration: Encourage partnerships among nonprofits, housing authorities, and government agencies.

Does North Carolina Have a Continuum of Care (CoC) Program?

Yes, North Carolina participates actively in the Continuum of Care Program through regional CoCs spread across the state. These CoCs coordinate local efforts to address homelessness by identifying service gaps, distributing funding, and implementing housing solutions.

Key CoCs in North Carolina:

• Balance of State (BoS) CoC: Serves rural areas and smaller communities not covered by urban CoCs.
• Durham CoC: Focuses on homelessness prevention and rapid re-housing in the city of Durham.
• Charlotte-Mecklenburg CoC: Covers Charlotte and its surrounding areas with programs targeting chronic homelessness.
• Wake County CoC: Provides extensive housing support in Raleigh and surrounding communities.

Each CoC collaborates with HUD to secure funding and implements tailored programs based on local needs.

Who Qualifies for the Continuum of Care (CoC) Program?

Eligibility for the CoC Program depends on individual circumstances and housing needs.

General Criteria:

• Homeless or At Risk of Homelessness: Includes individuals and families living in shelters, on the streets, or in unsafe housing conditions.
• Low Income: Priority is given to households with limited or no income.
• Special Populations: Veterans, individuals with disabilities, survivors of domestic violence, and youth are often prioritized.

Documentation Requirements:

• Proof of homelessness (e.g., eviction notices, shelter residency verification).
• Identification documents (ID cards, birth certificates).
• Income verification (if applicable).

How to Apply for the Continuum of Care (CoC) Program

Applying for the CoC Program in North Carolina involves working directly with local agencies and service providers.

Steps to Apply:

1. Contact Your Local CoC
   • Find the CoC serving your area through HUD’s CoC Locator Tool.
   • Reach out to local service providers or housing authorities to inquire about available programs.
2. Complete an Assessment
   • Many CoCs use the Coordinated Entry System (CES) to evaluate housing needs and prioritize resources. This process ensures fair and efficient allocation of services.
3. Prepare Documentation
   • Gather necessary documents, including proof of homelessness, ID, and income verification.
4. Follow Up
   • Stay in touch with your case manager or local CoC representatives to monitor your application status and receive updates on housing availability.

Where to Find Continuum of Care (CoC) Program Rentals

Finding housing under the CoC Program in North Carolina involves working with local housing agencies and landlords. Here are some resources to help:

Local Housing Authorities

Contact your county’s housing authority to inquire about CoC-funded rental units and supportive housing options.

Coordinated Entry System

Use your local CoC’s Coordinated Entry System to be matched with available rentals that meet your needs.

HUD Resource Locator

The HUD Resource Locator can help you identify housing providers participating in CoC programs in your area.

Community Organizations

Nonprofits and faith-based organizations often partner with CoCs to provide housing assistance and may have up-to-date rental listings.

Affordable NC Housing

If you’re looking for a straightforward and reliable way to explore affordable rental options in North Carolina, visit Affordable NC Housing. Our platform is dedicated to connecting residents with income-restricted housing options across the state, including areas like Raleigh, Fayetteville, Greensboro, and more.

We specialize in:

• Real-Time Availability: Stay updated with the latest affordable housing listings.
• Tailored Support: Access resources and guidance to simplify the rental application process.
• Statewide Coverage: From urban hubs to rural communities, we help you find a home that fits your budget and location preferences.

Affordable NC Housing is here to bridge the gap between residents and their ideal affordable housing solutions. Explore our listings today to take the first step toward stable and secure housing.

You can apply for housing here.

Benefits of the Continuum of Care (CoC) Program

The CoC Program offers significant advantages to individuals and families facing housing instability:

• Holistic Support: Combines housing assistance with services like job training, mental health care, and substance abuse counseling.
• Long-Term Solutions: Focuses on permanent housing rather than temporary fixes.
• Community Collaboration: Builds a network of resources to address homelessness on a larger scale.
• Tailored Assistance: Provides individualized support based on specific needs and circumstances.

Additional Resources

211 Helpline

• Dial 211 to connect with local housing and homelessness assistance programs, including CoC services.

Legal Aid of North Carolina

• Offers free legal services to tenants facing eviction or housing discrimination.

North Carolina Coalition to End Homelessness (NCCEH)

• A statewide organization working to coordinate CoC efforts and provide resources for service providers and individuals in need.

Conclusion

The Continuum of Care (CoC) Program is a vital resource for addressing homelessness in North Carolina. By offering housing assistance, supportive services, and a pathway to stability, the program helps individuals and families rebuild their lives.

If you or someone you know is experiencing homelessness or at risk of losing housing, take action today. Use the resources outlined in this guide to connect with your local CoC, apply for assistance, and secure safe, stable housing.

For more information, visit the HUD CoC Program website or contact your local housing authority.