The Housing Authority of the City of Tulsa recognizes that the provision of housing is only a part of the need facing low- income families. Through the Social Services Department, THA can fulfill the goal to help residents achieve self-sufficiency while living in affordable housing, by identifying barriers and offering programs that assist residents in breaking free from the web of poverty. The department has a Social Service Coordinator at nine of our family properties and at the four elderly/ disabled high-rise apartment communities to assist residents in maintaining independence and/or become self-sufficient. We have achieved this goal by partnering with multiple agencies in the community to break the transportation barrier and bring vital services to our residents, as well as having the on-site Social Service Coordinators provide specialized programming tailored to meet the needs of their resident populations. Health Services Elderly/Disabled: The Social Service Coordinators provide referrals for home health care, Hospice care, pharmaceutical delivery, group behavioral health counseling, flu vaccination clinics, eye exam clinics, nutrition education, Social Security and Medicare application assistance, veteran assistance services, vocation rehabilitation for employment inte­gra­tion, health education services as well as community health and safety fairs. Additionally, they hold individual programs that promote daily exercise and walking clubs to promote and prolong independence. Family/Youth: Nutrition education, vaccination clinics, eye exam clinics, reproductive counseling education and awareness, behavioral health groups, parenting classes, cooking classes, and bullying education/prevention education. Job Training Skills and Employment Assistance Elderly/Disabled and Family/ Youth: We have on-site computer labs and the Social Service Coordinators offer a variety of programming such as resumé writing, job search assistance, and interview tips. They also promote job vacancies in the community. In addition to these services, external agencies offer professional development and employment training and opportunities in the labor field. Financial Literacy and Education Elderly/Disabled and Family/ Youth: We partner with numerous external financial institutions that provide on-site services offering free credit repair, access to establish and/or re-establish checking and savings accounts, as well as financial education to assist residents in achieving financial independence and well- being. Higher Education Access and Assistance Elderly/Disabled and Family/ Youth: We partner with external technical and vocational agencies as well as community colleges and state and private universities to promote information on Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), GED education, college prep/ tuition assistance programs, workforce development skills and programs as well as multiple scholarship opportunities. Literacy and Education Elderly/Disabled: Social Service Coordinators have designated 7 6 Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope. – MAYA ANGELOU