Housing with CABH
Community Action for Better Housing (CABH) offers a variety of affordable housing options for individuals and families, ranging from Single Room Occupancy (SRO) units to one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments.
Housing Opportunities with Community Action for Better Housing (CABH)
Our properties are in both residential homes and multi-unit buildings throughout New Bedford and Fall River.
Because affordable housing demand is very high and vacancies are limited, CABH does not offer immediate placement. Applicants are typically placed on a waiting list, and housing is offered only when a unit becomes available.
Important Information for All Applicants
- Housing is not offered on demand; placement depends on availability and eligibility.
- Being on a waiting list does not guarantee housing.
- Applicants are responsible for keeping their contact information current.
- Applicants should prepare key documents in advance, including recent pay stubs, bank statements, benefit letters, and other income verification.
CABH is committed to providing fair, transparent, and supportive access to housing opportunities. We appreciate your patience and encourage applicants to remain responsive throughout the process.
For additional guidance on affordable housing in Massachusetts, visit the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities (EOHLC) resource guide.
How the Housing Process Works
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Apply to join a Waiting List
Applicants may apply based on the type of housing they are seeking, either subsidized housing (with a voucher) and/or private affordable (fair market rate) housing. Eligibility and approval of the type of housing will be based on criteria including household income, number of occupants, and other state and federal requirements. All applicants will be placed on a waiting list.
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Waiting Period
Waiting lists are managed based on program requirements and availability. Some applicants, such as individuals experiencing homelessness, survivors of domestic violence, or veterans, may receive priority where applicable.
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Unit Availability & Contact
When a unit becomes available, a CABH staff member will contact applicants on the waiting list to begin the next steps. Being contacted does not guarantee housing; it allows CABH to determine whether the applicant may qualify for the specific unit.
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Application Review & Eligibility
Applicants must complete all required applications and provide accurate, timely documentation, including income verification and household information.
Subsidized Housing (Housing Vouchers)
Most CABH units are leased through subsidized housing voucher programs in partnership with local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs). Under these programs, tenants generally contribute approximately 30% of their income toward rent, with the remaining balance covered by the voucher. To be eligible, applicants must earn less than 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the city in which they are seeking housing.
Key Points:
- CABH makes the initial determination regarding an applicant’s suitability for housing placement.
- The issuing PHA is responsible for the final eligibility and approval of the housing voucher.
- CABH may accept an applicant for housing only after the applicant has met all qualifications and received PHA approval for a voucher.
Learn more about voucher programs
- New Bedford Housing Authority Lease Housing Page
- Fall River Housing Authority Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program
- NeighborWorks Housing Solutions MA Voucher Program Page
- HUD Housing Choice Voucher Programs
Note: CABH offers a limited number of units specifically for senior citizens. Applicants seeking elderly housing through HUD’s Section 202 Project Rental Assistance Contract (PRAC) program may apply directly through CABH.
Rental Assistance Programs Accepted by CABH:
- Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP)
- Federal Section 8 (Mobile & Project-based)
- Section 202 PRAC (HUD Elderly Housing)
Learn more about Rental Assistance Housing Vouchers available in Massachusetts.
Private Affordable (Fair Market Rate) Housing
CABH also maintains a limited number of private affordable, non-subsidized units, often referred to as Fair Market Rate housing. These units are offered by landlords at reduced rents, are available to households earning less than 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI), and may be suitable for:
- Individuals with mobile vouchers (subsidized rental assistance)
- Households seeking affordable housing without rental assistance
Disclaimer
Submitting an application does not guarantee housing. All applications are subject to eligibility verification, program requirements, and availability of units. Housing is offered in accordance with federal HUD regulations and Massachusetts state laws governing low-income and subsidized housing programs. Placement is determined by program guidelines, waitlist status, and funding availability.
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