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They used Salesforce to develop a flexible infrastructure that allows their team to manage the program and data. Through a partnership with Zillow, Housing Connector was able to create a real-time marketplace for renters to search and apply to Housing Connector listings. But behind that simplicity is a data powerhouse that is driving the success of the platform. Housing Connector deliberately uses a simple approach to overcome the complexities in ending a crisis like homelessness.
HOUSING CONNECTOR FREE
In exchange, property partners receive access to free referral service to attract new renters, and a mix of both financial and situational support for up to two years to ensure their risk is minimized and families maintain stability. To help applicants overcome these challenges, Housing Connector partners with property owners and managers to lower screening criteria and increase access to housing for individuals exiting homelessness. Factors like an individual’s credit score, past debt, or eviction history can quickly derail the process for an individual who would otherwise have no problem meeting their rent obligations. Launched in October 2019, Housing Connector recognizes that access to a stable home is often cut short at the point of the rental application. When he applied through Housing Connector, he was approved, and finally received keys to a home of his own.
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Housing Connector helps people like Chauncey Williamson, who spent more than two years applying to over 20 apartments, simply to be turned away each time because of a low credit score. Housing Connector was founded on a belief that no unit should sit vacant while there are individuals in need of a home. This grant will go to supporting Housing Connector's ability to scale outside of the Puget Sound region in Washington state, and the technology that supports their staff's ability to help people find housing.
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