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November 2025 Newsletter

Van Buren Housing Authority Community News.

Reminders:

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

Upcoming Events:

  • November 2: Daylight Savings Time Ends
  • November 10: Closed for Veterans Day
  • November 27: Thanksgiving

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Dear Residents,

It's finally November! I feel like most of our families aren't ready to celebrate right now, but hopefully things will change very soon. I have talked with many of you who are struggling, and we are working to assist you in every way possible.

We have a food giveaway scheduled for November 3rd, and this should ease the immediate burden a bit. We know this is new for you, and it's new for us, too. Please be patient as we figure out logistics. We will keep you advised as we figure out how this will work.

We were also able to get turkeys this year, despite an Avian flu outbreak. We will be sending you more information on that in the first week of November. It will work the same way it has the past few years. You will be issued a PIN and whoever you give that number to will be able to pick up for you. I will send you a letter soon and provide you with all of the information you need.

We are also very excited to tell you that we have several families signed up to complete the Medical Coding and Billing certification course! I cannot wait to see you all absolutely THRIVE! We are still able to take a few more people for
November. Please call me if you are ready to GO!!!

As always, we are very busy planning all of the holiday things! Even under the current circumstances, we have planned well and are still able to serve your family during the times you need us the most. Please be watching for additional information from my office in the coming days. There are still so many great things to come in 2025.

Lastly, this time of year, it's very important to be a good neighbor. Things are hectic, and maybe even scary for some families. If you see an opportunity to love and support, please do. We all need each other so much. Let's all approach the next few weeks with a heart set on gratitude and see if we can't just get through it together. As always, you can call me or come to my office at when you need me. We are all here, and we're ready to help in any way we can.

With so much love,
Dayna Cochran

Tips for Families Facing Reductions in Food Benefits

With upcoming uncertainties about SNAP benefits and the loss of some supplemental food programs, many families may be feeling concerned about how to make ends meet. While this situation may be temporary, here are a few practical ways to stretch resources and get through this period more comfortably:

Plan and Stretch What You Have

  • Plan meals for the week and build your grocery list around what's already in your pantry.
  • Buy staple items in bulk when possible-such as rice, beans, pasta, and oats.
  • Use leftovers for soups, casseroles, or stir-fry dishes to reduce waste.
  • Freeze extra portions of meals or produce before they spoil.

Shop Smart

  • Watch for store sales, use digital coupons, and choose store-brand products.
  • Compare unit prices to find the best value.
  • Buy fruits and vegetables that are in season-they're often more affordable
    and nutritious.
  • Check discount or salvage stores for lower-priced groceries.

Use Local Resources

  • Visit local food pantries, churches, and community centers for free groceries or meals.
  • Ask schools about free or reduced-price meal programs and weekend food backpack programs.
  • Participate in community gardens that allow residents to volunteer in exchange for fresh produce.

Make the Most of What's Available

  • Prepare meals from scratch when possible-it's often cheaper and healthier.
  • Choose water instead of sugary drinks to save money.
  • Limit convenience and prepackaged foods, which tend to cost more per serving.

Look for Additional Assistance

  • Apply for utility assistance programs to reduce household expenses.
  • Contact local agencies or community coordinators for emergency food or financial support.
  • Explore employment and training opportunities through programs like WIOA (Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act).

Stay Informed

  • Check your state's Department of Human Services website for updates about SNAP benefits or emergency allotments.
  • If your benefits change, contact your caseworker for guidance as soon as possible.

If you or someone you know needs help finding local food resources or pantry schedules, please reach out to VBHA Staff for assistance. We're here to help connect families with available support during this time.

Get Ready for the Cold Weather!

Cold days are coming! Now's a great time to get your home and family ready for the winter months. A few small steps can make a big difference in keeping everyone warm, safe, and comfortable.

Keep the Warmth In

  • Check around windows and doors for chilly drafts. If you feel cold air, you can block it with weather stripping or even roll up a towel at the bottom.
  • Open your curtains during the day to let the sunshine in, and close them at night to keep the heat inside.
  • Dress in cozy layers and grab an extra blanket before turning up the heat.

Heat Safely

  • Never use your oven or stove to heat your home.
  • Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn, like curtains or bedding.
  • Always turn space heaters off when you leave the room or go to bed.
  • Check your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they're working.

Avoid Frozen Pipes

  • Let a little water drip from faucets during freezing weather to help keep pipes from freezing.
  • Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air reach the pipes.

Be Ready for Winter Weather

  • Keep an emergency kit handy with flashlights, batteries, blankets, and snacks-just in case the power goes out.
  • Check in on elderly neighbors or anyone who might need extra help during cold weather.

Stay Informed

  • Keep an eye on local weather reports for winter storm warnings or freezing temperatures.
  • If you need help or have concerns about heating or cold weather, reach out to the housing office-we're here to help!

Community Reminder: Keep Our Neighborhood Clean and Welcoming.

As a reminder, all residents agreed at move-in to follow the community's rules and lease obligations regarding cleanliness and outdoor appearance.

To keep our neighborhood looking its best:

  • Common areas must be kept clean and free of trash. Please do not litter or leave any garbage in shared spaces.
  • All household trash must be disposed of properly, using only the approved containers provided by the Housing Authority.
  • Garbage cans should be stored behind your unit, not in front or along walkways.
  • Only outdoor furniture is allowed outside. All indoor furniture must remain inside.
  • Items such as bicycles, toys, and grills should be neatly stored in the back of your unit or in your storage building.

Your cooperation helps maintain a clean, safe, and pleasant community for everyone.

Giving Thanks This November

As we move into November, it's the perfect time to pause and reflect on the things we're thankful for. Gratitude doesn't always come from having more-it often grows from appreciating what we already have and the people who make a difference in our lives.

This month, let's take time to express thanks for our families, neighbors, and community. Whether it's sharing a kind word, lending a helping hand, or simply taking a moment to appreciate life's small blessings, every act of gratitude helps strengthen our sense of connection and community spirit.

Even in challenging times, there's always something to be thankful for-and together, we can make this season one of kindness, generosity, and hope