January 2025 Newsletter

Reminders:

• Office hours are Monday - Thursday from 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
• For AFTER-HOURS EMERGENCIES call 479.883.8075
• Due to the holidays, Pest Control will be rescheduled as follows:
  
  • Groups A & B: Jan. 7
  • Groups C & D: Jan. 8
• VBHA trash pick up "free dump day" January 7, 2025
• VBHA will be closed on Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Monday, January 20, 2025
• Like us on Facebook and keep updated on current VBHA events!
  

Letter from the Director

Dear Residents,

Happy New Year! I hope each of you had a wonderful holiday filled with love and joy and are ready to embrace the new year with hope and optimism.

There's a lot happening at VBHA in 2025! Most importantly, this is a HUD inspection year, and we will begin preparations for it at the end of January. In addition, we'll be working on some capital projects on 23rd and 43rd & Lura. While we truly understand this may cause some inconvenience, it's essential for us to upgrade units and ensure they remain safe and sanitary. Please be patient with us as we fulfill our responsibilities as contracted by HUD.

This is also the time of the year when we start preparing for winter weather. Please make sure you follow PHA procedures when temperatures drop below freezing. If your pipes freeze, unfortunately, there isn't much we can do other than wait for them to thaw. Additionally, during winter precipitation, we may not be able to access your unit right away. To help minimize delays, we contract some emergency work orders; however, these services often experience high demand, as many others in the community face similar issues.

To avoid complications, please follow these precautions:

• Keep your thermostat set above 60 F.
• Leave cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Ensure faucets have a small stream of water running (VBHA covers water costs).

As always, I encourage each of you to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. Our team is here to support you and ensure that VBHA continues to be a safe, comfortable, and welcoming place to live. Let's work together to make 2025 a successful and positive year for everyone in our community!

Wishing you a safe and happy winter season,

Dayna Cochran - Executive Director

Winter Safety Tips: Stay Warm and Safe This Season

Winter is here, and while the colder months bring cozy evenings and beautiful snowy days, they can also present some challenges. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe, warm, and prepared:

Keep Your Home Warm and Efficient

• Check for Drafts: Weather-stripping or draft stoppers will keep cold air out and heat in. Contact Maintenance if you feel a draft.
• Space Heater Safety: If you use a space heater, place it on a flat, non-flammable surface and keep it at least 3 feet away from curtains, bedding, or furniture. Never leave it unattended.
• Smoke Detectors: Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are checked annually by VBHA. If you suspect yours is not working properly, contact Maintenance.

Prevent Slips and Falls

• Clear Ice and Snow: Keep walkways, stairs, and driveways free of ice. Use salt or sand to add traction.
• Wear Proper Footwear: Shoes or boots with good traction can reduce the risk of slipping.

Stay Healthy

• Layer Up: Dress in warm, layered clothing when heading outdoors. Don't forget gloves, hats, and scarves to protect against frostbite.
• Stay Hydrated: It's easy to forget to drink water in colder months, but hydration is still important.
• Fight Off Illness: Wash your hands often, and consider getting a flu shot to protect yourself and your family.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

• Assemble a Winter Emergency Kit: Include items like blankets, flashlights, batteries, non-perishable items, and bottled water.
• Plan for Power Outages: Keep extra blankets handy and know where to find candles or battery-powered lights.

Drive Safely in Winter Weather

• Slow Down: Icy roads can be unpredictable. Drive at slower speeds and keep extra distance between cars.
• Prepare your Vehicle: Check your tires, battery, and wipers, and keep a winter kit in your car with items like a shovel, jumper cables, and a first-aid kit.

By taking these precautions, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable winter season. If you notice icy or unsafe conditions around the community, please report them to the office right away!

Stay Healthy This Winter: Tips for a Happy and Active Start to the Year

The colder months can be tough on our health, but with a few simple steps, you can stay active, boost your immune system, and feel your best!

1. Keep Moving Indoors
   When it's too cold to head outside, there are plenty of ways to stay active at home! Try simple exercises like stretching, yoga, or following an online workout video. Walking in place while watching TV or doing household chores also adds up. Staying active helps keep your body strong and your mind sharp!
2. Eat for Energy
   Nourish your body with warm, hearty meals that are packed with nutrients. Soups and stews loaded with vegetables, beans, and lean proteins are great options. Don't forget to stay hydrated-sometimes we drink less water in winter but staying hydrated is just as important now as in summer.
3. Protect Yourself from Illness
   Flu season is here, so make sure to wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face. If you haven't already, consider getting a flu shot or any recommended vaccines. Bundle up properly before heading outside to avoid catching a chill, and remember to keep your home well-ventilated while staying warm.
4. Prioritize Mental Health
   Winter's shorter days can sometimes bring the "winter blues." Make time for activities that bring you joy, like reading, crafting, or spending time with family and friends. If you feel overwhelmed or need support, remember that mental health resources are available. Reach out to local services for help or talk to someone you trust.
5. Check Out Local Resources
   Looking to stay active and connected? Our community offers winter fitness classes and wellness workshops! Check out the bulletin board in the community center or contact the front office for details.

Your health is your wealth - take small steps to care for yourself and your loved ones this winter. Let's start the new year strong and healthy together!

Love Your Lease: Alterations and Repairs to the Property

Lease Agreement - Section I Tenant Obligations - Tenant shall be obligated:

28. "To make NO alterations or repairs to the dwelling unit or to the equipment, or to install additional equipment or major appliances without written consent of PHA. To make no changes to locks or install new locks or exterior doors without PHA's written approval. To use no nails, tacks, screws, brackets or fasteners on any part of the dwelling unit (a reasonable number of picture hangers accepted) without authorization by PHA."

Tenants are not allowed to make any changes or repairs to their apartment, including installing new appliances or equipment, without written approval from the VBHA. This also includes changing locks, installing new doors, or using nails, screws, or other fasteners on the walls, except for a limited number of picture hangers, unless given permission by VBHA.

Van Buren Housing Authority
1701 Chestnut Street
Van Buren, AR 72956
479.474.6901
info@vanburenhousing.org
www.vanburenhousing.org