Requesting a Transfer
CHA cannot promise that a transfer request will be approved or how long it will take. The Victim Assistance Program is not an emergency response or protection program. You are responsible for your and your family’s safety, which might mean staying with a friend or in a shelter temporarily. Always call 911 in an emergency.
Eligibility for VAWA Emergency Transfer
To qualify for a VAWA Emergency Transfer, you or a family member must be a victim under these categories:
- Domestic Violence: Violence by a family member, spouse, or partner.
- Dating Violence: Violence by someone you have or had a romantic relationship with.
- Sexual Assault: Any nonconsensual sexual act.
- Stalking: Behavior that makes you fear for your safety or causes emotional distress.
You must also believe you are in danger of more violence if you stay in your current home. If the violence involves someone not living with you, CHA will check if they qualify as an "affiliated individual."
Victims of sexual assault qualify if the assault happened on the property within 90 days before the transfer request.
Even if you are not in good standing with CHA, you can still request an emergency transfer if you meet these requirements.
Documentation for VAWA Emergency Transfer
To request a VAWA Emergency Transfer, you need these documents:
- Intake & Assessment of Threat Form: Completed by you and CHA’s Service Coordinator, including HUD Form 5383.
- HUD Form 5382.
Or one of these third-party documents:
- Professional Document: Signed by someone from a victim service provider, lawyer, doctor, or mental health professional, stating they believe the violence happened.
- Law Enforcement or Court Record: Such as a police report or court order.
If there is conflicting information, CHA may ask for additional proof, like a recent police report or protection order. Submit your documents within 14 business days of starting your case.
You can also use self-certification with HUD Form 5382 to show you qualify for an Emergency Transfer under VAWA.