Applicants Line Up In Dallas County For Housing Vouchers
DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - Dallas County is doing something Thursday that it hasn't done in a while. The county is accepting applications for housing vouchers.
People started getting in line Wednesday night; showing just how desperate some of them are to get help.
Before daybreak the line, outside the Ellis Davis Field House ran down South Polk in Dallas.
County staffers didn't begin accepting applications until 8 a.m. The opening of the doors caused a virtual stampede as hundreds of people suddenly sprinted toward the building and a few pushing to the front.
Some suffered minor scrapes and bloodied knees in falls and at least one pregnant woman was reportedly trampled.
This is the first time in five years that Dallas County has accepted applications. But, those applying are still likely facing a minimum two-year wait to get the federally funded assistance, also called Section 8.
The vouchers pay a portion of applicants' rent, based on household income.
This past May, when the Dallas Housing Authority opened its waiting list for the first time in five years there were more than 21,000 applicants.
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Emily Trube reporting for 1080 KRLD
Some of the requirements for those applying include -
• Applicants may live in any county
• Must apply in person
• Income requirements
• Photo id
• Undergo a criminal background check
Those wanting to apply can live in any county; but, must apply in person at the Ellis Davis Field House.
Applications for the vouchers will be accepted Thursday between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
