Definitions

Below are commonly used terms and metrics on our guides to the Homeless Information Line/CES, Homeless Prevention, Laura DeLapp Haven Housing Fund, and Rapid Re-housing.

14 days from losing your rental unit: This almost always means that you have already had your eviction hearing in court and the judge found in favor of your landlord. Learn more about the steps of eviction.

Area Median Income (AMI): A metric established by the federal government indicating the annual income for the median or ‘middle’ household in a region. Find the metrics for our community and your household size on the HUD website (click the button under “Access Individual Income Limits Areas”).

By-name list (BNL): A comprehensive list of every person in our community experiencing homelessness and known to at least one service provider.

Continuum of Care (CoC): a program composed of local organizations that serve individuals experiencing homelessness, managed by our area’s lead agency, Blue Ridge Area Coalition for the Homeless (BRACH). Promotes community-wide commitment to ending homelessness by providing funding and promoting access to programs.

Community Case Review (CCR): A group composed of members from CoC organizations that develop and review the status and support needs of individuals and families on our community’s By-name list. CCR meets twice a month via Zoom and is led by BRACH.

Eligibility appointment: Formerly known as an “intake.” Conducted by a member of the Coordinated Entry System team.

Eviction proceedings: The civil legal process that gives your landlord the right to have you removed from the unit. Learn more about the steps of eviction.

Fair Market Rent (FMR): A metric established by the federal government. Find the metrics for our community based on unit size on the HUD website.

Lease: A contract signed by both the landlord and tenant.

Lease prospect: Confirmation from a landlord (either verbal or written) that they will allow the person to lease up at a specific unit for a specific monthly rent if the person can come to the lease signing with first month's rent and deposit.

Literally homeless: Defined by the federal government as an individual or family who lacks a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, i.e. a place not meant for human habitation, overnight shelter (HUD).