Frequently Asked Questions
1. What do you mean by disabilities and low incomes?
a. Rush Homes serves residents with varying types of disabilities. Residents of Rush Homes experience physical impairments, multiple sclerosis, intellectual disabilities, Parkinson's disease, chronic physical illnesses, cerebral palsy, brain injuries, etc. - all somehow impairing their ability to earn an income. To be eligible, you must have a disability that is permanent (example: a broken leg is temporary and would not qualify).
b. Rush Homes is limited to serving residents who meet low income guidelines as determined by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Low income in the Lynchburg area is currently $28,800 or less for a family of four. Often, incomes for people who are fully disabled are less than $650 per month.
2. How are Rush Homes different?
a. Rush Homes meet the needs of people with disabilities. Many of our homes are fully accessible meaning that people can fully access their bathroom if they are in a wheelchair, take a shower, cook a meal because appliances and counters are the right height, get in their front door, etc.
b. Rents are affordable. Rent, including utilities, for a two bedroom apartment is $634. In the SHP program, residents pay no more than 30% of their income as rent. Rush Homes accepts Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8 vouchers), which subsidize rents so that residents pay only 30% of their income towards rent and utilities.
c. Rush Homes provides support: Rush Homes acts as a concerned, advocate landlord. We work hard to understand the needs of residents and we work with caretakers to meet those needs within our ability to do so. We go above and beyond typical landlord responsibilities with our Adopt-A-Home and Holiday Rush programs and by forming relationships with each of our residents and their families.
3. Do residents own the homes?
a. No. Rush Homes provides rental housing options. Most often, residents who come to Rush Homes have disabilities and/or incomes that make owning or maintaining a home at that time nearly impossible. We rent at affordable rates and we are responsible for exterior maintenance and yard work unless we have another agreement. We are also responsible for any normal wear and tear and work to make any changes that make the home a better place for that resident.
4. What is the need for Rush Homes in Central VA?
a. Over 1,850 people in Central Virginia have low incomes, mobility and self care issues, and housing problems. Over 340 families are currently on the Rush Homes waiting list.
