The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Cover

The Community Connect 

2022 Issue 01

In This Issue

Book Rich Environment / Succulent Gardens / Rent Cafe / Summer Camps / Self-Sufficiency / Scholarships

HACG Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 Front Cover


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Directory

HACG Main Building
700 N. Jefferson Ave.
(919) 735-4226

Occupancy
1608 E. Holly St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1135

FSS
1608 E. Holly St.
(919) 750-6957

Jobs Plus
1009 Slaughter St.
(919) 750-6847

ROSS
1906 Edgerton St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1301

Resident Services
1906 Edgerton St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1301

Fairview Apartments
1729 Edgerton St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1133

Lincoln Homes
1009 Slaughter St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1137 or 1138

Elmwood Terrace
409 Hinson St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1140 or 1141

West Haven Development
701 West Oak St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1142 or 1143

GHA Maintenance Emergencies
(919) 735-4080

Law Enforcement (Non-Emergency)
(919) 705-6572

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Board of Commissioners

Jean Whitfield
Chair

Donnie Barnes
Vice-Chair

Goldie Smith
Commissioner

William Turner
Commissioner

Sherry Archibald
Commissioner

Geoff Hulse
Commissioner

Sierra Carmichael
Commissioner

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HACG Website 

HACG Twitter

HACG Facebook


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - From the CEO

CEO Anthony Goodson posing in chair

There are many twists and turns on the road called life. Life's hard times don't segregate, and they don't choose by color, income, sex, or amount of good deeds. Everyone is susceptible. These curveballs come when you least expect them and can change the trajectory of the life you have planned.

But.

No matter what is thrown your way, if you are still here, there is an opportunity to bounce back, to become something you never imagined possible.

Take life's sour lemons and make sweet lemonade.

More good news is that you don't have to go through this life's journey alone. Our staff is here to help you succeed in ALL of life's arenas.

I invite you to stay up to date on news and community resources by reading through this newsletter, connecting with us on social media, and subscribing to receive these updates by email or text message on our website at hacg.org or through your RENTCafe portal.


Drink up!

ANTHONY GOODSON, JR.

Chief Executive Officer


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - BRE

Dad reading a book to two children

Becoming A Book Rich Environment

HACG is proud to partner with the National Book Foundation's Book Rich Environments (BRE) program. Since 2017, BRE has distributed over 1.6 million free, high-quality, diverse books to public housing residents across the US. Public housing communities are frequently considered "book deserts," in which young people lack ready, easy access to books and reading material in their homes. Participating in Book Rich Environments means we will be working with local partners, including the Wayne County Public Library. Sydney's Book Club and the Partnership for Children of Wayne County to change this by infusing communities with books and reading. As the second agency within the State of NC to receive this game-changing opportunity for our youth, we are ecstatic to get started!

To receive free books for your children, please join us for our kick-off event, "Books, Bikes and BBQ," scheduled for June 15th from 12-2 pm in Fairview. All are invited to attend. Be sure to complete the helmet survey for your chance at receiving a new safety helmet and possibly a bike! Don't miss this event. Kids, come out with your scooters, bicycles, skates, and skateboards, and kick off summer with us! Stay in the know about this initiative and others by following us on FB @GoldsboroHousingAuthority.


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Gardens

HACG Sponsors Succulent Gardens

HACG Staff are grouped in a classroom while holding a check to sponsor the Tranquility Garden at Carver Heights.

HACG is delighted to sponsor the succulent gardens within Carver Heights Elementary School's new Tranquility Garden.

Succulents are a group of plants with some of the most diverse forms, colors, and blooms. They're easy to care for and tend to store water in their leaves and/or stems.

The garden will give our youth a place to feel safe, comfortable, and an opportunity to discover nature.

HACG Jobs Plus Staff are pictured shoveling rocks in the garden outside Carver Heights school.

Jobs Plus staff in orange shirts are standing with their shovels in the garden outside of Carver Heights Elementary school.


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Mental Health

20 Tips To Boost Your Mental Health

Mental Health America Resources

  • Track gratitude and achievement with a journal.
  • Start your day with a cup of co­ffee.
  • Set up a getaway.
  • Work your strengths.
  • Keep it cool for a good night's sleep.
  • Take one step towards your goal.
  • Experiment with a new recipe.
  • Show some love to someone in your life.
  • Boost brainpower by treating yourself to some dark chocolate every few days.
  • Feeling anxious? Take a trip down memory lane and do some coloring.
  • Take time to laugh.
  • Dance around while you do your housework.
  • Has something been bothering you? Let it all out...on paper.
  • Spend some time with a furry friend.
  • Try prepping your lunches or picking out your clothes for the workweek.
  • Practice forgiveness.
  • Feeling stressed? Smile.
  • Send a thank-you note.
  • Do something with friends and family.
  • Take 30 minutes to go for a walk in nature.

Important Numbers for Mental Health
NAMI NC Information and Referral Helpline
1-800-451-9682

NC Suicide Prevention Lifeline
1-800-273-8255


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Rent Café

HACG Rent Cafe Portal Flyer

Welcome to Rent Cafe.

To register or log in, scan the QR code or visit myportal.hacg.org.

Register Now!

Apply to open waitlists!

HACG Calendar!

Mobile Access!

Save My Spot!

Contact the Occupancy Department!

Review and update your information.

Rent Cafe is your online connection to the Housing Authority of the City of Goldsboro.

Equal Housing Opportunity Logo


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - FSS

The Housing Authority of the City of Goldsboro has an incredible self-sufficiency program for residents in Elmwood, Little Washington, Woodcrest, and Section 8 participants.

This is a five-year volunteer program that allows families to earn escrow that coincides with rent increase. One of the major benefits of this program helps families connect with various organizations and resources for self-sufficiency.

Over the last two years, we have seen families obtain homeownership, use escrow for business start-up and use funds to further their personal dreams and goals.

Our Family Self Sufficiency program gives families an opportunity to develop a plan with their FSS Coordinator to help achieve goals. During the course of time, we have offered Homeownership Workshops with licensed professionals giving tips on obtaining homeownership.

This program will certainly assist you with implementing goals that you have dreamed of.

Connect with our coordinator, James Jones Jr for more information: 919.750.6957 or jjones@hacg.org. 


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - FSS Standout

One of our most recent celebrations is a participant, Shalona Rodgers
creating wealth through her business. She has consistently been involved with obtaining an LLC in North Carolina. With being recognized in the state, she began planning to have a brick-and-mortar business at Berkeley Mall as a vendor. Shalonda has had constant communication with the FSS Coordinator, utilizing her escrow money to purchase supplies and pay her lease agreement. You will find The Lo'Don Belle' Collection in Berkeley Mall.

"With the FSS program, I have been able to accomplish many of my goals; they have helped me with saving money as well as kept me stress-free while reaching my objectives." - Shalona Rodgers

Shalona Rodgers The Lo Don Belle Collection advertisement


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - ROSS

We Help You Accomplish Your Goals!

Don't wait any longer to pursue your goals and leave your legacy! Yes, that is right, you have more in you than you may think!
Our ROSS Program staff are ready and willing to push you to your next level!

Whether you need supportive services to live independently, want to further your education, or increase your employability skills, the ROSS program is here to help make your transition from public assistance to economic independence as smooth as possible.

If you're interested in learning more or beginning your self-sufficiency journey contact Jedidiah Hayes at 919-735-4226 ext. 1301 or jhayes@hacg.org. 

Rectangle table with ROSS logo and ROSS Marketing material


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - SOAR

SOAR Program Flyer

Sign up for SOAR!

This FREE program provides academic and vocational skills to residents to help them accomplish personal achievement by setting goals and creating paths for a brighter future.

Receive industry recognized credentials for employment in Warehouse, Inventory and Logistics, Forklift Operator, etc. Participants can also earn college credits to assist them with getting into the career that best suits them.

Classes Begin Soon! To learn more information or to register, please call 919.735.4226 ext. 1301.


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Aging in Place

Aging in Place is also a part of the ROSS program. It focuses on helping residents aged 62 and over stay active, live healthier lives, and live safely at home instead of a nursing home or assisted living facility.

Senior Pantries
Pantries are available at each management office with supplies for senior residents ages 62 and older who need items such as toilet paper, adult diapers, soap, dish detergent, and laundry soap.

These pantries are to be used as needed, not as a monthly resource. Senior residents who have a need can reach out to the property managers on Wednesday mornings between 8 am and 12 pm for assistance!

Senior Grocery Rides
HACG Seniors 55+ needing transportation to the grocery store can now use our ride service!

Fairview & Lincoln - 3rd Tuesday
All Other Communities - 3rd Wednesday
Pick-up at management office @ 10:00 am
Return to management office @ 11:15 am

You must contact Thad Washington at twashington@hacg.org or call/text 919-750-9026 to let them know if you need a ride a week prior. Only 10 people will be transported at a time.

Senior Food Boxes
Food boxes will continue to be delivered on the 2nd Tuesday of each month to residents 60+ who meet the income requirements.

To learn more about our Aging in Place program or to suggest ideas, please contact Ayisha Razzak-Ellis at 919-750-6847 or aellis@hacg.org. 

 


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Yard of the Month

Yard of the Month

Congratulations to our Yard of the Month winners! Thank you all for showing creativity and taking pride in your yard.

Annie Hargrove yard of the month winner holding certificate

Annie Hargrove (West Haven)

Peggy Bryant Yard of the Month Winner outside her residence holding a certificate

Peggy Bryant (Elmwood)

Blanche Davis outside her residence holding a Yard of the Month certificate with HACG Staff member

Blanche Davis (Fairview)

Mercy Freeman outside her residence holding a Yard of the Month certificate with a HACG Staff member

Mercy Freeman (Lincoln Homes)


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Jobs Plus

Jobs Plus RIbbon Cutting with CEO Goodson and Director Ayisha

The Jobs Plus program is off to a great start in Lincoln Homes with 57 residents already enrolled in the program. If you need help with any of the following, stop by our office and speak to one of our case managers:

·Daycare assistance
·Help finding a job
·Updated resume
·Tuition assistance
··Transportation

Jobs Plus is here for four years, so stop by on Thursdays between 9am and 11:30am and speak with Nate, Joi, or Cassandra, our case managers, who can help you set and reach short and long-term goals.

Be on the lookout for Jobs Plus staff and our Community Coaches to be walking throughout Lincoln Homes, passing out flyers and engaging with residents.

Jobs Plus is here to help you, so take advantage of all that it can offer.

For more information about this program, please reach out to Ayisha Razzak-Ellis at aellis@hacg.org or 919-750-6847.

GHS Choir singing at ribbon cutting ceremony for Jobs plus

WCC Representative at Jobs Plus ribbon cutting ceremony


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Muffins for Mom

Jobs Plus Muffins for Mom
Here are a few pictures from our recent event celebrating the Jobs Plus Moms!

Muffins for Mom celebration group holding their vision boards

Lincoln Homes Staff at Muffins for Mom celebrationjpg

Muffins for Moms attendees with small trophy in hand

Muffins for Mom big group of attendees in front of flower banner

Jobs Plus Staff at Muffins for Mom event


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Jobs Plus Teens

Jobs Plus Teens flyer with group at coffee shop

Our new Jobs Plus program in Lincoln Homes serves teens ages 14-17!

Jobs Plus Offers:
Youth financial literacy
Job search and employment help
Educational support and resources
College prep and tours
Volunteer opportunities
Individual case management

Learn more about this program by calling 919-750-6847.


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Job Opportunities

  • More than 1400 job openings with the State of North Carolina. Which one is right for you? Make your next career move at www.nc.gov/jobs  
  • 150+ positions available through Wayne County Public Schools visit www.waynecountyschools.org to view job openings!
  • View positions currently available within Wayne County Government at www.waynegov.com/Jobs.aspx 
  • Multiple positions currently available within the City of Goldsboro see vacancies at www.goldsboronc.gov 

Also Hiring:
Wayne UNC Health Care
Wayne Community College
O'Berry Medical Treatment Center
Johnston Health
AMAZON Kinston
flyexclusive Kinston
JMA Placement

For more opportunities at www.indeed.com 
Contact Resident Services for assistance at (919) 735-4226 x 1301.


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Crew

HACG Lawn Maintenance Crew outside

We appreciate our Lawn & Maintenance crew for helping to keep HACG beautiful!

 


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Resources

Basic Driving Class

Our Basic Driving Class hosted by A+ Driving School provides the education you need to drive skillfully and safely-to protect yourself and other drivers on the road.

The next class is Thursday, June 9th!
Register for either our in-person or virtual option by calling 919.735.4226 ext. 1301.

Food Assistance

FREE Food Boxes are available courtesy of the Three in One Family Center on Mondays starting at 10 am at the Wayne County Correctional Facility, 700 Stevens Mill Rd.

Mobile Market at Wayne County Public Library
11 am-12 pm
Stop by and get free groceries!
Sponsored by Goldsboro Family YMCA

NC 211

NC 211 is an information and referral service provided by United Way of North Carolina. Families and individuals can dial 2-1-1 or 1-888-892-1162 to obtain free and confidential information on health and human services and resources within their community.

 


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Resources Continued

Housing Assistance

HACG Occupancy Dept. is accepting applications for public housing. We have a Waiting list for 1 bedroom to 5 bedrooms. Applications are available at 1608 E. Holly St.

Financial Literacy 

BANK ON WAYNE is a financial literacy program that provides instruction in budgeting, banking and managing credit. Bank on Wayne encourages participants to operate within the financial mainstream and avoid costly alternative financial services. Knowledgeable bank representatives facilitate financial classes each month. Visit literacyconnectionsofwaynecounty.org/bank-on-wayne for more information.

Continuing Education

The Workforce Continuing Education - Wayne Community College division offers a wide array of learning opportunities to promote workforce, economic, and personal development. You can earn an adult high school or high school equivalency diploma, get into the workforce quickly with short-term training, take personal enrichment classes just for fun, and so much more.

Know an adult who wants to complete high school? They can pick up a packet at one of these locations:

Fairview Community Center
Fairview Management Office
Jobs Plus Building

Contact the ROSS Program at 919.735.4226 ext 1301 for assistance.

Short-term Workforce Development (STWD) Grant

The Short-term Workforce Development Grant is for eligible students pursuing high-demand workforce training programs within workforce pathways identified in collaboration with the Department of Commerce that lead to a state or industry-recognized credential. Based on student needs, awards can be up to $750 per course and may address tuition/registration fees, course fees, books, supplies, credentialing tests, transportation, childcare, and other costs of attendance.

Eligible credentials:

Must be a North Carolina resident as determined by the NC Residency Determination Service.
Must be enrolled in Workforce Continuing Education pathways/courses leading to a North Carolina Workforce Credential identified as either Essential or Career level. A list of eligible credentials is available at https://nccareers.org/credentials/credentials-list.


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Summer Camps

 

-Wayne County Public Library STEM Camp for Rising 6-8th graders
August 15-19th from 10AM - 3PM
Call 919.735.1824 ext. 5105 to register.

-Boys and Girls Club Tropical Vibez Summer Camp for Ages 6+
Starts the week of June 13th.
www.BGCWayne.org/summer-camp 

-Goldsboro YMCA has Multiple Summer Camp Opportunities Available visit https://www.goldsboroymca.org/programs/summer-camp to learn more.

-Goldsboro Parks and Rec Summer Camps
Full-Day, 3/4 Day, Sports, and Fun Bunch Summer Camp for youth ages 7-13 www.goldsboroparksandrec.com/register 

-Kinetic Minds Free Summer Camps for rising 1st through 4th graders
www.kineticmindsinspire.com 

-Kinetic Minds Free Summer Camp & Yearlong Program for rising 5th - 9th www.kineticmindsnc.org

-Rebuilding Broken Places Project Y.E.S.S. S.T.R.E.A.M. Free Summer Camp serving students in grades 1 through 8.
https://bit.ly/RBPSummer2022 

-Wayne Community College Junior Bison Summer Camps for Middle & HS Students www.waynecc.edu/camps 

HACG Residents, have you signed your child up for summer camp? Do you need assistance with summer camp registration and fees?
Please contact Ayisha Razzak-Ellis at 919-750-6847 to see how we can help!


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Poster Contest

What Home Means to Me

Here are a few pictures of our youth being creative in their communities!

father and son coloring on table outside

little boy drawing with markers on poster board outside while looking at camera

Little Boy showing off his What Home Means to Me poster

Little boy all smile outside holding a paper plate that has a slice of pizza

Little girl with afro puffs drawing on poster board inside building

Kids participating in the What Home Means to Me poster contest outside drawing on poster board

 


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Scholarships

Damon Brown recipient of HACG Resident Scholarship

The HACG Resident Scholarship is currently available to public housing residents of the Housing Authority of the City of Goldsboro who apply and meet the criteria as outlined. Up to $4000.00 will be awarded to the college or university to which the applicant has been accepted.

Amari Williams recipient of HACG Community Scholarship

The HACG Community Scholarship is currently available to graduating seniors that live within Wayne County, NC, that plan on pursuing their education at a trade school, community college, or four-year university.

Apply Now!
www.hacgscholar.org 


The Community Connect 2022 Issue 01 - Back Cover

Back Cover with Jobs Plus Staff member Nate Dupree with youth

The Community Connect

2022 Issue 01

www.hacg.org