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Charter Oak Communities, Stamford's Housing Agency, Earns Top Marks

STAMFORD, Conn. -- Stamford housing agency Charter Oak Communities has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development with the highest possible operations rating for the sixth year in a row. 

Charter Oak Communities in Stamford has again earned recognition from the federal government.

Charter Oak Communities in Stamford has again earned recognition from the federal government.

Photo Credit: Submitted

This recognition comes as COC continues its evolution from being a traditional public-assisted housing authority to an innovator and catalyst. Emphasizing cross-sector collaboration with community partners, COC promotes health and wellness by addressing the financial, personal, physical and emotional health, welfare and self-sufficiency needs of its residents. 

To be designated in the “High Performer” category, housing authorities must receive an overall score of at least 90 percent or greater, based on total available points in the HUD uniform rating system, which is called its Public Housing Assessment System. 

This recognition reflects COC’s 2014-15 fiscal year performance (through June 2015). COC scored 95 out of 100 possible points. PHAS scoring is based on comprehensive ratings for four key indicators, including physical condition; financial condition; management operations; and capital fund programs. 

The audit also reviews each public housing site's building exteriors, building systems, dwelling units and common areas. 

According to Vincent J. Tufo, executive director/CEO for Charter Oak Communities, PHAS helps measure critical factors that affect the quality of life for people who live in publicly assisted housing. The PHAS audit areas for improvement and qualifies high-performing authorities for incentives such as increased grant funding. 

“PHAS is designed to help improve the overall delivery of public housing services, and enhances trust among public housing agencies, residents and the general public,” said Tufo. 

Through the work it does with its community partners, Tufo said, COC has created residences that are an asset to the Stamford community. Collaborative efforts, he said, are helping to maintain the integrity of neighborhoods, and assisting residents to become more self-sufficient. COC and its partners offer a variety of amenities including one-on-one case management, simplified access to healthcare and wellness services, and healthy housing, and works to ensure that everyone has a voice in their community. 

For more information about Charter Oak Communities, visit www.CharterOakCommunities.org.

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