Frequently Asked Questions

 

Below is a list of frequently asked questions about CHISPA, our programs and affordable housing.  For information about home ownership, please click here.  For information about CHISPA's rental properties, please click here.  For information about CHISPA's upcoming or new affordable housing developments, see the New Developments page.

 

Is CHISPA a government agency like the Housing Authority?

 

No,  CHISPA is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) developer.  We must follow the same regulations and reporting rules as all other nonprofit organizations.

 

How does CHISPA get funding for its developments?

 

CHISPA receives money from several sources for our rental and homeownership developments including government loans and grants designed to fund affordable housing, bank loans and mortgages, and redevelopment funds from locals cities and counties designated to develop affordable housing.  Our rental housing also may include equity from corporations who receive a tax credit on their income taxes or government funding for specific populations (elderly, agricultural workers).

 

Who does CHISPA serve?

 

CHISPA serves low and very-low income people.  Our residents are generally the working poor, single parents, agricultural workers, seniors and people with disabilities or special needs. 

 

How does CHISPA obtain its land and properties?

 

Our development staff is always on the look out for land that may be appropriate for an affordable housing development.  Many times, we are contacted directly by property owners wanting to sell their land specifically for affordable housing.  We also have relationships with market-rate developers and real estate brokers who provide us with referrals or the opportunity to purchase land for our developments.

 

What is the Mutual Self-Help Housing Program?

 

The Mutual Self-Help Housing Program is a program where low-income people wishing to purchase a home assist in the construction of their home.  This may also be called "sweat equity" because the homeowners build their own homes, reducing the overall construction cost.  This program provides a tremendous asset to the community because the families in the program work closely together for about 12 months building their homes and developing a true sense of community and neighborhood.  The program also provides training in basic construction skills, allowing some of the participants to pursue another career alternative.  Families participating in the self-help program are able to make the American Dream of homeownership come true.

 

Does CHISPA work with other organizations?

 

Yes, we work closely with many nonprofit and community-based organizations who provide services to the residents of our rental developments.  For a list of our partners, please visit the Community Partners page.  Our Community Services Department works with outside organizations to bring programs to our rental developments to best serve the residents of each development.  For more information about working with CHISPA, please contact the Community Services Coordinator.

 

How has the housing crisis affected CHISPA's homes?

 

We have seen an increase in the demand for affordable rental housing because of the housing crisis and home foreclosures.  CHISPA's home ownership developments are normally not affected by downturns in the economy or spikes and valleys of home prices.  The foreclosure rates and home sales in our developments are very low in comparison to market rate developers.  The majority of our program participants are interested in owning a home to live in, not purchasing a home as investment or to make a quick profit.

 

Does CHISPA accept donations?

 

CHISPA does accept monetary donations and product donations that can be used at our rental properties.  Donations made to CHISPA are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law.  For more information about donating to CHISPA, contact the Director of Administration or Community Services Coordinator at (831) 757-6251.