FAQs

+ What do you mean by disabilities and low incomes?

Rush Homes serves tenant families with a variety of disabilities. Rush Homes’ tenant families experience physical impairments, multiple sclerosis, developmental disabilities, mental illness, Parkinson’s disease, chronic physical illnesses, cerebral palsy, brain injuries, and others – all impairing their ability to earn an income.

Rush Homes serves tenant families who have low incomes. About 65% of our tenant families have extremely low incomes which for a single person in 2022 is $16,590 or less per year and for a family of two is $18,960 or less per year according to federal guidelines.

+ How is Rush Homes different?

Rush Homes properties meet the needs of people with disabilities. Most of our homes are fully accessible for people with mobility impairments, with features including roll-in showers, front control ranges, and lowered countertops.

Rents are affordable. Rush Homes readily accepts rent subsidy vouchers, allowing tenant families to pay no more than 30% of their income toward rent and utilities.

Rush Homes manages properties and provides residential support programs. We work to understand the needs of tenant families in cooperation with support service organizations.

+ Why does Rush Homes believe in Housing First?

Housing first means we believe housing is the foundation on which stable families are built. With the housing first approach, we reduce barriers to permanent housing. Barriers often include unwillingness of landlords to accept housing choice vouchers, rents that are too expensive, accessibility, credit problems, etc. When a person's housing needs are met, their life improves. They are typically healthier, happier, and more stable.

+ What is the need for Rush Homes in the greater Lynchburg region?

Over 1,850 people in Central Virginia have low incomes, mobility and self-care issues, and housing problems. Over 550 families are currently on the Rush Homes waiting list. Lynchburg has a shortage of 2,340 homes for families with extremely low incomes.

+ Doesn’t the government provide housing for people with disabilities and low incomes?

NO. The government does not provide housing for everyone with both a low income and a disability. Programs exist to help make housing more affordable such as Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers.

+ If I do not have a disability or low income, why should I care about Rush Homes?

Lynchburg is a community of people who care about one another and help those in need. Our neighbors with disabilities and low incomes often need support. Rush Homes offers that support which is a hallmark of our community. Through our service, tenant families are more stable, creating cost savings for our community through reduced need for public services. Rush Homes, by creating housing for people with disabilities, also brings millions of dollars to our community.