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January 2026 Newsletter

Community News January 2026 header.

Reminders:

  • Office hours are Monday - Thursday 7:30 - 6:00
  • For After-Hours Emergencies call 479.474.6901 (follow the prompts)

Upcoming Events: 

  • January 19: VBHA Office and Community Center Closed for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

To like us on Facebook and keep updated on current VBHA Events, please click link or scan the image below!

Van Buren Housing Authority Facebook QR code.

Dear Residents,

Happy New Year! As we welcome 2026, I hope each of you enjoyed a safe and joyful holiday season and are feeling hopeful and refreshed as we begin a new year together. We are truly looking forward to the wonderful things ahead for our community in the months to come. 

There is a lot happening at VBHA this year, and one important item to share is our upcoming inspections. Preparations have already begun, with inspections scheduled for later this month. These inspections are an essential part of our work-they help us identify needed improvements, maintain quality housing standards, and ensure your home and our neighborhood remain safe, comfortable, and enjoyable for everyone. We appreciate your cooperation and support as we move through this process together.

We will also continue planning and working on improvements throughout our properties as opportunities arise. While some projects may cause temporary inconvenience, they play an important role in maintaining and enhancing our community for the long term.

Winter weather remains a consideration during this time of year, so please continue to follow PHA procedures during freezing temperatures and winter conditions. Taking preventative steps helps reduce damage and delays and allows us to respond more effectively when issues arise.

As always, if you have questions, concerns, or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office. Our team is here to support you and to ensure VBHA remains a safe, welcoming place to call home.

Thank you for being a valued part of our community. We look forward to a positive, productive, and successful 2026 together.

Warm wishes for a safe and happy New Year,

Dayna Cochran
Executive Director

VBHA January 2026 Calendar of events. All information as listed below.

  • Thursday, January 1
    • Happy New Year 2026

  • Monday, January 5
    • 10:00 AM - BINGO
    • 4:00 PM - Cocoa and Crafts

  • Tuesday, January 6
    • 10:00 AM - Trivia
    • 4:00 PM - Homework Help

  • Wednesday, January 7
    • TBD

  • Thursday, January 8
    • 10:00 AM - Games and Gather
    • 4:00 PM - Homework Help

  • Monday, January 12
    • 10:00 AM - BINGO
    • 4:00 PM - Cocoa and Crafts

  • Tuesday, January 13
    • 10:00 AM - Trivia Tuesday
    • 4:00 PM - Homework Help

  • Wednesday, January 14
    • TBD

  • Thursday, January 15
    • 10:00 AM - Games and Gather
    • 4:00 PM - Homework Help

  • Monday, January 19
    • Office Closed for MLK Day

  • Tuesday, January 20
    • 10:00 AM - Tuesday Trivia
    • 4:00 PM - Homework Help

  • Wednesday, January 21
    • TBD

  • Thursday, January 22
    • 10:00 AM - Games and Gather
    • 4:00 PM - Homework Help

  • Monday, January 26
    • 10:00 AM - BINGO
    • 4:00 PM - Cocoa and Crafts

  • Tuesday, January 27
    • 10:00 AM - Trivia Tuesday
    • 4:00 PM - Homework Help

  • Wednesday, January 28
    • TBD

  • Thursday, January 29
    • 10:00 AM - Games and Gather
    • 4:00 PM - Homework Help

**Events are subject to change. New events are scheduled regularly, please check our Facebook page for the most recent updates! Scan the QR code or visit: www.facebook.com and search for Van Buren and Ozark Housing Authorities.

Lease Agreement - Section 1 Tenant Obligations - Tenant shall be obligated: 

47. "To comply with the Community Service and Self-Sufficiency Requirement as described in the PHA's Community Service and Self-Sufficiency Policy. Tenant and other family members eighteen (18) years of age or older agree that any non-exempt adult family ,ember must contribute either eight (8) hours of community service per month or participate in an economic self-sufficiency program for eight (8) hours per month, or perform a combination of eight (8) hours of community service and participation in an economic self-sufficiency program per month. The required community service contribution or self-sufficiency participation, or combination of both activities, may be completed at eight (8) hours each month or aggregated throughout the year as long as 96 hours is completed by each annual reexamination. Noncompliance with this requirement will result in this Lease not being renewed, subject to the Tenant/family member's right to request a hearing under the PHA's Grievance Procedures."

All adults in the household (18 or older) who are not exempt must either:

  1. Do 8 hours of community service each month, or
  2. Participate in an economic self-sufficiency program for 8 hours each month, or
  3. Combine both activities to total 8 hours each month.

Hours can be done monthly or spread across the year, as long as 96 hours are completed annually by the time of the annual review. If this requirement isn't met, the lease might not be renewed. Tenants can
request a hearing if they disagree.

Some Reminders from Your Housing Managers:

  • Keep trash containers in the proper location. CARDS will not pick up trash that is not INSIDE the container.
  • Please be considerate of your neighbors and pick up any trash, cigarette butts, and pet waste.
  • SMOKING is prohibited on VBHA property.
  • It is YOUR responsibility to keep your income, contact information, or any other changes updated with the office.

Winter Wellness: Simple Ways to Stay Healthy and Energized 
Cold weather can change our routines, but a few intentional habits can go a long way toward keeping you feeling your best this winter. Staying active, eating well, and caring for your mental health can help
you move confidently into the new year.

  1. Stay Active-Even Indoors 
    When outdoor temperatures drop, indoor movement becomes especially important. Gentle stretching, chair exercises, yoga, or short at-home workout videos are great options. Even small efforts-like walking
    around your home during TV commercials or doing light chores-help keep muscles strong and joints flexible.

  2. Fuel Your Body with Smart Choices
    Winter is a great time for warm, nourishing meals. Foods like soups, stews, beans, vegetables, and lean proteins provide lasting energy and important nutrients. Don't forget about hydration-drinking enough
    water is just as important in colder months, even if you don't feel as thirsty.

  3. Reduce the Risk of Seasonal Illness
    Colds and flu are more common this time of year. Washing your hands often, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding close contact when you're sick all help prevent the spread of germs. Staying up to
    date on recommended vaccines and dressing appropriately for the weather can also make a big difference.

  4. Take Care of Your Mental Well-Being
    Shorter days and colder weather can affect mood and motivation. Make time for activities you enjoy-reading, puzzles, crafting, or connecting with family and friends. If you're feeling stressed, isolated, or
    overwhelmed, reaching out for support is a sign of strength. Help and resources are available when you need them.

  5. Stay Connected Through Community Resources
    Our community offers opportunities to stay engaged and informed throughout the winter months. Keep an eye on community bulletin boards and announcements, or contact the office to learn about upcoming wellness activities, classes, and events.

Taking care of yourself doesn't require big changes-small, consistent steps add up. Let's work together to make this winter a healthy, positive start to the year!