The Cincinnati Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) hosted its Annual Housing Choice Voucher Partner Appreciation Banquet on Wednesday, May 7, at the Sharonville Convention Center. This prestigious gala celebrates and honors the invaluable partnerships that contribute to the success of CMHA and the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, which plays a crucial role in helping participants secure affordable and quality housing.
The Keynote Speaker, Hamilton County Commission President Denise Driehaus, shared Hamilton County’s support for affordable housing in Hamilton County and collaboration with CMHA. She explained Hamilton County’s investment of the ARPA funds toward affordable housing in many ways, including about $36 million in conjunction with the Cincinnati Development Fund, which has provided money toward all of CMHA’s developments for the past nine years. She commended the landlords for what they do to support affordable housing in Hamilton County, “you all are changing the attitudes towards affordable housing in this community. What you are doing is critically important to the vitality of every single neighborhood of the county.”
Additionally, Mr. Gregory Johnson, CMHA CEO, shared a story relayed to him from a landlord attending the event about having to choose between two families to rent one house. It was a difficult decision to make, but in the end, it worked out in the best way possible for both families. “The landlord affected two families, nine kids with one decision by renting on our program, but helping others is what makes us all connected, so thank you to that.”
During the event, CMHA presented a range of distinguished awards to landlords and partners who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and service. Notable accolades include the “Housing our Heroes” award, recognizing those who support veterans, the “Commitment to Housing” award for outstanding dedication to providing housing solutions, and “The Modernization and Stabilization Award,” which acknowledges efforts to enhance and improve housing quality. This memorable evening not only highlights the contributions of these organizations but also fosters a sense of collaboration and community spirit in the ongoing mission to provide accessible housing for all.
