At CDLI, we believe that where you live has a profound impact on the future of your family. Our Making Moves program is dedicated to helping Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) families with children under 18 access high-opportunity communities, opening doors to better opportunities and long-term success.
Why Where You Live Matters
Research shows that neighborhoods can greatly influence key aspects of life, including health, education, and income potential. Living in a community with better resources—such as stronger schools, safer streets, and greater economic stability—can help set the stage for lifelong success. Children who grow up in these environments tend to earn more as adults, have better health outcomes, and experience higher college attendance rates. By moving to a high-opportunity neighborhood, you can give your family the chance to thrive.
What Making Moves Offers
The Making Moves program provides personalized housing mobility coaching and financial assistance, helping families navigate the process of relocating to a high-opportunity area. Our services include:
● Housing Search Assistance: An experienced housing mobility coach will help you find neighborhoods and homes that align with your family’s goals.
● School Information and Support: We provide insights into school districts and can liaise with school staff to ensure your children have the best opportunities.
● Neighborhood Tours: Explore potential new communities to get a feel for the environment and resources available.
● Financial Coaching: We offer referrals for financial counseling to ensure you're ready for the move and beyond.
● Landlord Engagement: We work with landlords to facilitate smooth housing transitions and overcome any obstacles.
● Post-Move Support: Our coaches will stay with you for up to two years, providing guidance and assistance as you settle into your new home.
● Short-Term Financial Assistance: To ease the financial burden of moving, we offer temporary financial support.
● Peer Support: Engage with other families and property owners to share experiences and build community.
Eligibility to Participate
The Making Moves program is available to families who:
● Are currently receiving Housing Choice Voucher assistance through the Division of Housing and Community Renewal with CDLI in Suffolk or Nassau County.
● Have children under the age of 18.
● Are not currently living in a high-opportunity neighborhood.
How This Program Can Benefit Your Family
Long Island is home to a wide range of communities, each with unique characteristics. With the help of our housing mobility coaches, you can make informed decisions about which neighborhoods best meet your family’s needs. High-opportunity areas typically offer lower crime rates, healthier environments, stronger schools, and more parks and recreational spaces—leading to better physical and mental health outcomes.
The Making Moves program isn’t just about relocating—it’s about investing in your family’s future. By making the move to a high-opportunity area, your children can grow up in an environment that fosters academic success, career advancement, and overall well-being.
Did You Know?
● Higher Voucher Payments: Recent increases in voucher payment amounts have made previously unaffordable neighborhoods accessible to Housing Choice Voucher holders.
● Know Your Rights: It is illegal in New York State for landlords to discriminate against you because you have a housing voucher.
Making the decision to move to a better neighborhood can have lasting positive effects on your family’s future. The Making Moves program provides the support, coaching, and resources you need to make that transition as smooth and successful as possible.
Let Making Moves guide you toward a brighter future for your family. For more information about the Making Moves program or to determine your eligibility, you can contact us by email at makingmoves@cdcli.org or by phone at 631-597-0742.
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