Mission & History

The mission of the Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee (HACM) is to foster strong, resilient and inclusive communities by providing a continuum of high-quality housing options that support self-sufficiency, good quality of life, and the opportunity to thrive.

HACM has been a national leader in housing for over 75 years and currently provides high-quality, affordable housing options to over 10,000 Milwaukee families, seniors and disabled adults. We also work with our residents to assist them in achieving self-sufficiency through a wide range of economic, health and social services.

Chartered by the State of Wisconsin in 1944, HACM is governed by a seven-member Board of Commissioners who are appointed by the Mayor of the City of Milwaukee and confirmed by the Milwaukee Common Council.

HACM's housing options include over 4,000 subsidized public housing and/or tax credit units and a Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8 Rent Assistance) that provides housing assistance to nearly 6,000 households. Both programs utilize affordable housing subsidies that are provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. HACM also manages nearly 1,000 unsubsidized affordable apartments at its Berryland, Northlawn and Southlawn developments.

HACM has developed a number of award-winning programs that focus on the development of healthy communities that provide safe environments for families, seniors and adults with disabilities. Major initiatives include physical improvements to ensure the long-term viability of affordable housing, economic self-sufficiency, education, homeownership, public safety, and health care.

Honors recognizing HACM's high quality service to the Milwaukee community and beyond have included the World Leadership Award from the World Leadership Forum in recognition of HACM's innovations in housing and neighborhood development.

HACM values strong fiscal management. The agency has earned an A+ credit rating by Standard & Poor's Rating Services.

For a history of HACM within the context of local and national events, view our 2008-2010 Annual Report.