MILFORD, PA. — The Wayne County Housing Authority and Pike County Human Services announced a new partnership aimed at expanding access to housing assistance services for Pike County residents.
Beginning Thursday, May 14, staff from the Wayne County Housing Authority will be available on-site at the Pike County Human Services office on the second Thursday of each month to provide in-person Housing Choice Voucher services for eligible residents.
Officials said the partnership is intended to reduce barriers to accessing housing assistance, streamline application and document verification processes, and improve affordable housing support throughout the region.
Under the arrangement, the Pike County Human Services office will also serve as a drop-off location for residents unable to travel to the housing authority’s office, allowing paperwork to be submitted locally.
“I would personally like to thank the staff and leadership of Pike County Human Services, as well as the Pike County Commissioners, for providing workspace for the Wayne County Housing Authority,” Joe Blaskiewicz, CEO and executive director of the Wayne County Housing Authority, said in a statement. “Through this partnership, we are combining our resources, expertise, and community outreach efforts to better serve Pike County residents facing housing challenges.”
Blaskiewicz said the agencies share a goal of ensuring residents have access to safe and affordable housing.
Jackie Walsh, housing choice voucher coordinator for the housing authority, said offering services in Pike County will make the process more convenient for applicants.
“While on-site in Pike County, I will be able to conduct voucher briefings closer to applicants’ homes, making the process much more convenient for them,” Walsh said. “I will also be able to take information and verify documents in person, which could significantly shorten the process by eliminating the need to mail documents — especially for those who have limited access to technology.”
Robert Ruiz, executive director of Pike County Human Services, said the collaboration is intended to make services more accessible.
“Pike County residents deserve access to the services they need without facing unnecessary hurdles, and this collaboration is a direct response to that need,” Ruiz said.
Stephanie Everson, housing coordinator for Pike County Human Services, said the county continues to face a housing shortage.
“Pike County is facing a very real housing shortage, and the need for affordable housing solutions has never been more urgent,” Everson said. “Having WCHA services available directly here in Pike County means that residents who are struggling to find safe, affordable housing will have faster, easier access to the help they deserve.”
Services available during on-site visits will include Housing Choice Voucher briefings, document verification, intake assistance and program information.
Residents can schedule appointments with Walsh by calling 570-488-6069, Option 3, or by emailing jwalsh@wchahousing.com.