Housing Authority of Champaign County

THE HOUSING HUB

Monthly Newsletter

The MTW Plan explains the activities that HACC has created with the goal of increasing self-sufficiency, expanding housing opportunities, and supporting local initiatives to increase access to community services. This plan has been approved by The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

For Immediate Release

Housing Authority of Champaign County Announces Approval of 2026 MTW Plan, Advancing Self-Sufficiency and Housing Stability

Champaign, IL — The Housing Authority of Champaign County (HACC) is pleased to announce the approval of its 2026 Moving to Work (MTW) Plan, marking another step forward in the agency’s commitment to promoting self-sufficiency, expanding housing opportunities, and strengthening long-term housing stability for families and youth across Champaign County.

As a designated MTW agency, HACC continues to use federal flexibility to implement locally driven solutions that address the evolving needs of residents while encouraging pathways to economic independence.

The approved 2026 MTW Plan includes several important policy enhancements designed to support long-term stability, workforce participation, and housing access for vulnerable populations.

Updated Work Requirements to Support Economic Self-Sufficiency

Beginning in 2026, HACC will strengthen its work requirement standards for able-bodied adults between the ages of 19 and 54, increasing participation expectations to 30 hours per week. This enhancement is intended to further support economic mobility, workforce engagement, and household self-sufficiency.

“HACC believes that stable housing and economic opportunity go hand in hand,” said Lily Walton, Executive Director. “These updated expectations are designed to help families increase earnings, build long-term stability, and move toward greater financial independence while continuing to receive the support they need.”

Policy Change to Promote Long-Term Housing Stability

HACC is also making a significant change to its 8 Year policy. Rather than terminating families from assistance at the conclusion of the eighth year, HACC will now implement a minimum rent policy for households that have reached this milestone.

Under the revised approach, families at Tier 4 and above will remain in the program and maintain their current rent tier for the duration of participation. While rent may increase if household income rises, rent will not decrease below the participant’s established tier, creating greater predictability while reinforcing long-term self-sufficiency goals.

This updated model reflects HACC’s commitment to balancing accountability with housing stability. Assuring families are not displaced while continuing to encourage economic advancement.

New Transitional Housing for Youth Facing Housing Instability

The 2026 MTW Plan also introduces a new Youth Transitional Housing Initiative, establishing eight dedicated housing units for youth experiencing homelessness or are at risk of homelessness.

The program is designed to provide safe, stable housing while connecting young people with supportive services, education, workforce development, and long-term housing pathways.

“Youth homelessness requires innovative and compassionate solutions,” said Lily Walton. “This initiative creates an opportunity for young people to stabilize, rebuild, and move toward independence with the support they deserve.”

The Youth Transitional Housing initiative aligns with HACC’s broader mission to expand housing access and invest in strategies that address both immediate housing needs and long-term community outcomes.

Commitment to Innovation and Housing Stability

The approval of the 2026 MTW Plan reflects HACC’s continued focus on innovation, accountability, and responsive housing policy. Through the MTW program, HACC remains committed to designing local solutions that improve housing outcomes, support family stability, and strengthen communities.

Additional details regarding the approved 2026 MTW Plan will be shared at the upcoming Board Meeting.

About the Housing Authority of Champaign County

The Housing Authority of Champaign County (HACC) provides affordable housing opportunities and supportive services designed to promote self-sufficiency, housing stability, and economic opportunity for individuals and families throughout Champaign County.

The Housing Authority of Champaign County:

Lily L. Walton

CEO and Executive Director



Please join me in congratulating Gordon Turner, our May Champion of the Month! Gordon is always quick to lend a helping hand to the Hessel office team, no matter the task. From hanging pictures and mirrors to helping resolve sewage issues, he always gets the job done—or finds the right person who can! Beyond his hard work and dependability, Gordon is an incredibly kind person who always greets everyone with a smile and a friendly hello. He also brings great energy to our employee morale initiatives and helping foster a positive workplace culture. We are grateful for all that you do, Gordon, and are proud to recognize you as our CHAMPION of the Month!

HACC senior residents have been asking to go to the casino so we did just that! They enjoyed a fun trip filled with laughter, excitement, and great company. From trying their luck on the games to spending time together, it was a day full of fun and memories made. Everyone had a blast!

HACC, in partnership with Habitat for Humanity Champaign County, hosted a Homeownership Counseling Informational Workshop led by Family Services Director Allison Garrett.

In partnership with Tony Odom, HACC hosted the We Love the Youth event at Oakwood Trace Townhomes! Youth in the community enjoyed a fun and safe space while receiving fresh haircuts ahead of the season. Thanks to this incredible effort, 32 boys received haircuts, helping boost confidence and bring smiles all around.

YouthBuild took a trip to Springfield! There, students collaborated with other YouthBuild programs and construction trainers at an event hosted at the Capitol. Policymakers had the opportunity to see the impact of YouthBuild and advocate for its programs. Students also met with legislators and shared what YouthBuild means to them.

HACC YouthBuild had the honor of welcoming the Mayor of Urbana, Mayor DeShawn Williams for a special visit! The mayor gave students the opportunity to ask questions about his journey to leadership, who he was at their age, and the importance of discipline and motivation in reaching goals. After the discussion, students were excited to showcase the stools and benches they have been working so hard to build. Opportunities like this matter for youth, especially in Champaign County, offering inspiration, connection, and a chance to see what is possible.

Congratulations to Unique, YouthBuild’s May Student of the Month! Unique is a sweet young lady whose dedication and hard work shine through in everything she does and every responsibility she takes on. We couldn’t be prouder to recognize her achievements and celebrate all of the effort she puts in.

Steer Place Apartments update:

Senior residences for individuals 55+ are now pulling from the waitlist. Letters will be sent to those currently on the waitlist with important next steps and details.

This is a great opportunity for eligible seniors seeking comfortable and affordable housing.

For questions, please contact Kelly Novak at KellyN@HACC.net

Oakwood Trace Townhomes waitlist update:

Project Based Vouchers are now being pulled from the waitlist. Letters will be sent to individuals currently on the waitlist with next steps and additional information.

This is an exciting opportunity for those seeking affordable housing in the community. Stay tuned and keep an eye out for updates.

For questions, please contact Robyn Dodd at RobynD@HACC.net

Join Inspire H.E.R and FirstFollowers for the Harlem Renaissance Fashion Show and Clothing Drive at Needful Things and Champaign IL June 14th from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Join fellow Black Professionals at Esquire Lounge for the Black Professionals Networking and Fundraiser event hosted by Inspire H.E.R and FirstFollowers. June 25, 2026 from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM. Enjoy free music, food, and door prizes as you network. This is a free event, but donations welcome, all proceeds go towards FirstFollowers Transition Houses, First Steps, and New Horizon.