Important Information Regarding Wait List Opening

Public Housing Waiting List - Frequently Asked Questions

• How long will the public housing waiting list be open?
  • The waiting list for public housing will be open for the three days below:
    • Wednesday, September 30, 2020 through Friday, October 2, 2020.
• How do I apply for housing? 
  • You may apply online at www.columbiahousingsc.org/apply-for-housing.
  • You may call Richland Library call center at 803.386.8506.
  • You may call Columbia Housing call center at 803.376.6141.
• What are the hours for the Call Centers?
  • Both call centers will be open to accept applications from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM on the above listed dates.
• Can I use my smart phone to apply?
  • You may apply using your smart phone, laptop, desktop or call in to one of the call centers to submit your application.
• What if I do not have access to Wi-Fi?
  • The Richland Library Wi-Fi bus will be parked at Columbia Housing's main office at 1917 Harden Street on the following days and times:
    • September 30, 2020 - Wednesday - 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
    • October 1, 2020 - Thursday - 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
    • October 2, 2020 - Friday - 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
  • Richland Library locations (except Sandhills) offer free Wi-Fi access from the convenience of the parking lot.
• Can I apply for Section 8 and Public Housing when the waitlist  opens?
  • Applications will only be accepted for the Public Housing program.
• Can I submit a paper application?
  • Applications will only be accepted online.
• Do I need an email address to apply?
  • An email address is required to complete the application.
• What information will I need to apply?
  • You will need to enter social security numbers, dates of birth, and household information for all occupants when completing the application.
• The notice on your website states that the waiting list is only open for 3, 4, and 5 bedrooms. I only need a 1 bedroom. Should I still apply?
  • The waiting list is only open for the bedroom sizes noted. The waiting list for all other bedroom sizes is currently closed and will not be accepted.
• I am in desperate need of housing. How soon will I be able to move in?
  • Columbia Housing does not offer emergency housing. If selected, you will receive notice within 30 days after the waiting list close date.

Applying for Public Housing?
Do you need help applying online?
Do you have questions?
We can Help!

• Columbia Housing will accept applications for 3, 4, and 5 bedroom public housing units from 9:00 AM Wednesday, September 30, 2020 until 4:00 PM Friday, October 2, 2020.
• Applications will be accepted online at: www.columbiahousingsc.org.
• Call the CH Help Line at:
  • 803.376.6141 or 803.254.3886 Ext 360 from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• or send an email to:
  • covid19@columbiahousingsc.org
• Call the Richland Library at:
  • 803.386.8506 from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• or send an email to:
  • socialworker@richlandlibrary.com

If you do NOT have access to the Internet, the Richland Library Bus will be onsite to assist persons that wish to apply.
Please see below for specific dates and times:

• September 30, 2020 - Wednesday - 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
• October 1, 2020 - Thursday - 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
• October 2, 2020 - Friday - 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM

Please wear a mask and practice social distancing if you plan to take advantage of this option.