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Housing Authority of San Angelo - Homepage

VAWA Protections & Emergency Transfer Plan

Your Rights Under VAWA

The Housing Authority of San Angelo (HASA) is committed to the safety of our participants. If you or a member of your household is experiencing domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking, you may qualify for housing protections under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).

These protections are available to all individuals, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, or marital status.

 

What is an Emergency Transfer? 

An emergency transfer allows a participant to move to another housing unit if they believe they are at risk of harm by remaining in their current home. Depending on your situation, this may include: 

  • Moving to another unit within the program
  • Moving to a unit in another area (portability to another housing authority)

 

Who Can Request an Emergency Transfer? 

You may qualify if:

  • You or a household member are a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking AND
  • You request a transfer AND
  • You believe there is a serious or immediate threat of harm if you remain in your current unit.

    OR

  • You are a victim of sexual assault that occurred on the premises within the past 90 days. 

You do not need to be in "good standing" with your landlord to request an emergency transfer.

 

How to Request an Emergency Transfer

To request a transfer: 

  • Contact your housing caseworker
  • If unavailable, contact the HCV Manager
  • You may request verbally, but you may be asked to submit a written request.

You may be asked to complete: 

  • A written request describing your situation
  • HUD Form 5382 (Certification Form) (optional but helpful)

Important: 

  • You will generally have 14 business days to provide documentation if requested.
  • HASA will keep your information strictly confidential.

 

What Happens Next

  • HASA will process your request as quickly as possible (generally within 14 days)
  • If approved, you will be issued a transfer voucher:
    • Typically 30 days to locate housing
    • 60 days if moving to another housing authority (portability)
  • You will need to:
    • Find a unit within the issued rent limits
    • Submit a Request for Tenancy Approval (RFTA)
    • Pass inspection before moving
  • Please note:
    • HASA cannot guarantee unit availability
    • You are not required to notify your current landlord if it is unsafe to do so.

 

Your Safety & Confidentiality

HASA takes your safety seriously:

  • Your information will be kept confidential
  • Your new location will not be disclosed
  • Information will only be shared if:
    • Required by law
    • You provide written permission

 

Available Documents and Forms

Download the following: 

 

Need Help Right Away?

If you are in immediate danger, call 911

You may also contact:
  • National Domestic Violence Hotline
    • 1-800-799-7233
    • TTY: 1-800-787-3224
  • National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN)
    • 800-656-HOPE
Local Resources in San Angelo
  • San Angelo Police Department - 325-655-6256
  • Tom Green County Sheriff's Office - 325-655-8111
  • Crisis Intervention Unit - 325-227-8753
  • Family Shelter - 325-655-5774
  • Open Arms Rape Crisis Center - 325-658-8888
  • Legal Aid of Northwest Texas - 325-653-6982

 

If you need this information in another language or format, please contact our office for assistance.