The Community Connect
The Community Connect - Text Only
The Community Connect
Moving Forward TogetherThis issue of Community Connect highlights a season of growth, change, and progress as we move forward together. Inside, you will find event recaps, program updates, and important leadership transitions that reflect the strength of our community.
Directory.
www.hacg.orgHACG Main Building
700 N. Jefferson Ave.
(919) 735-4226Occupancy
1608 E. Holly St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1135Section 8
1729 Edgerton St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1119FSS
1729 Edgerton St,
(919) 750-6957Jobs Plus
1009 Slaughter St.
(919) 750-6847ROSS
1906 Edgerton St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1301Resident Services
1906 Edgerton St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1301Fairview Apartments
1729 Edgerton St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1133 or 1132Lincoln Homes
1009 Slaughter St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1137 or 1138Elmwood Terrace
409 Hinson St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1140 or 1141West Haven Development
701 West Oak St.
(919) 735-4226 x 1142 or 1143Maintenance Work Orders
(919) 735-4080Law Enforcement (Non-Emergency)
(919) 705-6572
Board of Commissioners:
Sherry Archibald Chair
Larry Johnson Vice-Chair
David Ham Commissioner
Geoff Hulse Commissioner
Nadine McEachern Commissioner
Peggie Howell Commissioner
Sierra Carmichael Commissioner
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FROM THE INTERIM CEO
As I reflect on the past seven months, I want to take a moment to share how honored I have been to serve this agency as Interim CEO.
This has been a season of steady work, growth, and commitment. Together, we have continued moving important initiatives forward, strengthened our day to day operations, and stayed focused on what matters most serving our residents. I am incredibly proud of our staff for showing up each day with dedication and care, even while navigating change. That does not happen by chance. It happens because of people who believe in the work and in the families we serve.
To our residents, thank you for your patience, your engagement, and your trust during this time. Your voices and your experiences continue to guide the work we do, and we remain committed to supporting you in every way we can.
As we look ahead, I encourage both staff and residents to remain optimistic about what is to come. Change brings opportunity, and this agency is well positioned for continued growth and success. The foundation is strong, and the future is full of possibility.
It has truly been a privilege to serve in this role. Thank you for your support, your hard work, and your continued belief in our mission to build stronger communities and create opportunities for those we serve.
Stay connected with us through social media, email, or text alerts, and be the first to hear about upcoming opportunities. You can sign up through the RENTCafe portal or visit our website at hacg.org.
Sharita Oates
Interim Chief Executive Officer
Strong NSPIRE Inspection Scores for HACG
We are excited to share great news from several Housing Authority of the City of Goldsboro communities.
Elmwood, Woodcrest, and Little Washington successfully completed their NSPIRE inspection on December 29, 2025, earning an impressive final score of 88. This strong result reflects the pride residents take in their homes and the dedication of our staff to maintaining quality housing.
Shortly after, West Haven completed its inspection on January 5, 2026, receiving a preliminary score of 88. While the score is still pending final confirmation, it represents another outstanding achievement for our community.
NSPIRE (National Standards for the Physical Inspection of Real Estate) is the inspection system used by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These inspections help ensure that public housing communities are safe, well maintained, and comfortable places for residents to live. Inspectors review building exteriors, common areas, and individual homes while checking important health and safety items like smoke detectors, electrical systems, plumbing, and heating.
These excellent scores highlight what can happen when residents and staff work together. Thank you to everyone at Elmwood, Woodcrest, Little Washington, and West Haven for helping make our communities places we can all be proud of.
Celebrating New Degrees
Juhari Christopher, HACG's Purchasing Agent, recently earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a focus in Business Management from the University of Mount Olive.
First Conference Experience
Thomas Earl Oates recently attended the Nelrod 26th Annual Consortium Conference in Las Vegas, NV, as part of a group of six staff members representing our agency. He participated in the Fair Housing for Maintenance session and returned ready to share what he learned with his team.
CNI Update
We are proud to highlight the continued progress of the West Oak Pocket Park, located adjacent to the GWTA bus station on North Carolina Street. This project is part of the West Oak Choice Neighborhood Initiative, a community driven effort focused on strengthening housing, public spaces, and overall neighborhood connection. As an early action project, the pocket park reflects the vision and momentum behind the larger plan to revitalize the West Oak area.
The park will provide a small, accessible recreational space for residents and transit riders to enjoy. Features include playground equipment such as climbing bars and a large rope swing, along with shaded canopies, picnic tables, and AstroTurf with accessible surfaces for safe play. The space is designed to be welcoming for all ages and abilities, creating a place for families and neighbors to gather.
This $178,000 project is made possible through a strong partnership. The City of Goldsboro contributed $55,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds, and the Housing Authority provided $123,000. Playtime Installers is leading the installation, and the park is already coming together. This project marks an important step in a larger transformation that will continue to bring new opportunities, improved spaces, and stronger connections to the West Oak community. To learn more about the initiative, visit westoakchoice.com.
See Something, Say Something!
The safety of our community is a shared responsibility. If you see suspicious activity or witness a crime, please report it so it can be addressed quickly and help keep everyone safe.
In an emergency, call 911. For non emergency concerns, contact the Goldsboro Police Department at 919.705.6572. Remember to stay safe, do not put yourself at risk, and share as much detail as possible when reporting.
Grass Season Reminder
As we approach grass cutting season, we want to remind everyone of the importance of keeping our community clean, safe, and well maintained. To help our maintenance team work efficiently, please remove all personal items from grassy areas around your home, including lawn furniture, toys, bicycles, decorations, and anything that could obstruct mowing.
We also ask that all trash and debris are properly disposed of and that pet owners clean up after their animals at all times. Failure to remove items or clean up waste may result in service delays or possible lease violations and fines. We appreciate your cooperation in helping keep our community in great condition. If you have any questions, please contact the management office.
Stipend Workers Wanted!
HACG is inviting current residents, age 18 and older, to apply for the opportunity to serve as a Stipend Worker within their community. Stipend Workers assist with activities, events, community upkeep, and sharing important information, helping create a positive and welcoming environment for everyone.
This opportunity allows residents to earn a stipend while gaining valuable work experience, building skills, and staying connected with their community. If you are interested, please contact your property management office for an application.
Event Participation Practices
HACG is committed to providing respectful and safe services for all residents. To maintain a professional environment, residents visiting any Housing Authority office are expected to dress appropriately. The following attire is not permitted in offices
- Bonnets or head coverings typically used for sleeping
- Pajamas or sleepwear
- Undergarments worn as outerwear or lack of appropriate undergarments
Residents who do not meet these standards may be asked to return when properly dressed. For off site events, residents must be in good standing under their lease and may be unable to attend if experiencing a communicable illness that could be spread in group settings. The Housing Authority may set additional practices as needed to support safety and a positive experience for all.
The HACG CARES Community Pantry, established as an essential resource for residents experiencing food insecurity or temporary hardship. The pantry provides nonperishable food items as well as gently used clothing, including scrub sets for residents entering healthcare related fields, professional clothing and shoes for the workplace. Additional items such as toiletry supplies and limited household cleaning products are also available to assist families in meeting basic needs.
Our Resident Services Department works to find creative solutions in making partnerships for assistance available in areas such as education, credit and finances, skill set improvement, homeownership, employment opportunities, and job training.
The Resident Services department is responsible for coordinating service offerings that truly reflect the needs expressed by its community. These resources enhance the quality of life for the HACG residents while putting an emphasis on providing a sense of community.
Resident Services continues to strengthen community impact through partnerships with several organizations dedicated to serving our residents.
The HACG Women's Empowerment Expo 2025 celebrated resilience, courage, and growth under the theme Unbreakable Strength. Hosted by Melissa Wade of The Light 103.9, the event brought women together for a day of connection, encouragement, and meaningful conversations, with Dr. Endya Perry serving as keynote speaker.
Throughout the day, important topics like health, wellness, lupus awareness, and domestic violence were highlighted, creating space for learning and support, while Small Fire Comedian kept the energy high with laughter.
Attendees enjoyed giveaways, good food, and a variety of vendors offering resources and products that support women's growth and well being. We are thankful for all of our supporters and partners who helped make this event a success, and we look forward to an even greater experience in 2026.
At the Housing Authority of the City of Goldsboro, we believe in supporting the next generation. Today, we presented $5,000 each to our Partner in Education schools, North Drive Elementary School, Dillard Middle School, Goldsboro High School, and Carver Heights Elementary School, for a total of $20,000 to help provide resources and opportunities that empower student success.
With North Carolina's per student funding still below the national average, we are committed to doing our part to close the gap and uplift our youth. Because when our students succeed, our entire community thrives.
Fairview Santa's Workshop was a hit. Thanks to Bhangi Gold for making this a Christmas to remember for our youth.
Our Elmwood and West Haven Santa Workshops were packed. Kids everywhere, gingerbread houses in every direction, and Santa and Mrs. Claus right in the middle of it all.
ROSS participants have demonstrated significant progress this quarter by enrolling in the program and successfully working toward their individualized self sufficiency goals. Several participants have already completed professional development and workforce training programs, earning certifications that strengthen their qualifications and position them for gainful employment and long term career advancement.
Through educational opportunities offered by Wayne Community College and other training providers, residents have successfully obtained certifications in areas such as Effective Teacher Training I, Non Profit Management, EKG Technician, and Nurse Aide I. In addition, participants have completed GED and High School Diploma preparation courses, further equipping them with the academic credentials necessary to pursue continued education and sustainable career pathways.
For questions or more details, simply call Jedidiah Hayes, ROSS Coordinator, at 919 735 4226 ext. 1301, or fill out an inquiry form online at HACG.org.
Qwamesha Holloman recently completed the Effective Teacher Training I Certification Course at WCC, and we are proud to recognize this accomplishment. The course, sponsored by Wayne County Public Schools and Wayne Community College, is required for substitute applicants and covers important areas like planning, instruction, behavior management, human relations, and professional growth, along with an introduction to WCPS policies.
This training gave Qwamesha hands on tools she can use right away, and it speaks to her willingness to keep learning and growing. We are excited to see how she continues to use what she learned to make a positive impact.
Recruitment initiatives for the ROSS Program are conducted quarterly to ensure residents remain informed about available opportunities and supportive services. Residents currently residing in the Fairview, Park Court, and Trinity Court communities are encouraged to apply and may inquire about program participation at any time.
The next recruitment session is scheduled for April 16, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Fairview Community Center.
The Family Self Sufficiency Program continues to create opportunities for residents who are ready to move forward and build toward long term stability. This voluntary program connects housing assistance with supportive services that help families find jobs, increase income, and work toward financial independence.
Participants enter into a five year plan that outlines their personal goals, with the opportunity to earn escrow savings as their income grows. At the end of the program, those who meet their goals may receive those savings, creating a strong foundation for their next step.
This year, the program is focusing on both growth and outreach. Participants will complete certificate workshops covering budgeting, credit improvement, life and health insurance, and first time homeownership. We are also introducing new interest events like Show Me The Money and Future Builders Day, where residents can learn about the program, hear from FSS graduates, and see how the escrow works in real life.
The FSS program serves residents at Elmwood, Little Washington, and Woodcrest, along with Housing Choice Voucher participants. To learn more or get started, contact our FSS Coordinator, Mack Murray at 919.583.2493.
When Latisha Hamilton joined HACG's Family Self Sufficiency Program, she was a single mother of two working at Arby's with a goal to build a better future for her family. With determination and support from the program, she earned her Bachelor's degree, secured a full time career with the U.S. Postal Service, and became the first HACG FSS participant to purchase a home as a first time homebuyer.
Now a family of seven, Latisha is moving into her new home and plans to use her escrow savings to furnish it and start a candle business. She credits the program and her coordinator, Mack Murray, for helping her stay focused and on track. Her story is a strong example of what is possible through the FSS program.
When Shalona Phillips joined HACG's Family Self Sufficiency Program, she was a single mother working as a cashier with a vision for more. Within her first year, she became a licensed lash specialist, launched her own LLC, and began building her brand with support from FSS Coordinator Mack Murray.
Since then, she has developed her own edge control product line, now sold in local beauty supply stores and shipped to customers in multiple states. Now married with children, Shalona plans to use her escrow savings to continue growing her business. Her journey is a strong example of what can happen with focus, support, and determination.
We are pleased to share an update regarding the Jobs Plus Program. While most components of the program ended on December 31, 2025, the rent incentive portion was extended through March 30, 2026 due to remaining funds. Residents currently receiving the rent incentive will not see a rent increase until April 1, 2026. To remain eligible, all required recertifications must be completed on time.
Although the program is now limited to the rent incentive, staff continue to support residents through referrals, job search assistance, résumé support, and financial guidance. Over the past four years, the program has supported residents with daycare, transportation, education, employment, and financial management.
A total of 107 participants have benefited from the rent incentive, with 56 building savings totaling $335,517 to date. We are proud of the progress made and remain committed to supporting residents on their path to stability and self sufficiency.
For more information, contact Ayisha Razzak Ellis, Jobs Plus Director, at aellis@hacg.org or 919.750.6847.
Food Assistance
ADLA Inc. Free Food Pantry and Soup Kitchen monthly at 612 Breazeale Ave., Mt. Olive, NC.Community Soup Kitchen of Goldsboro
112 W Oak St.
Goldsboro, NC 27530Basic Driving Class
Our Basic Driving Class provides adults 18+ the education needed to drive skillfully and safely to protect themselves and other drivers on the road. This class is offered for free twice a month at the Fairview Community Center.To learn more or to register contact Resident Services at 919.735.4226 ext. 1301.
Job Opportunities
More than 900 job openings with the State of North Carolina. Make your next career move at nc.gov/jobs143 positions available through Wayne County Public Schools. Visit waynecountyschools.org
View positions within Wayne County Government at waynegov.com
Find more opportunities at indeed.com
Also hiring
Wayne UNC Health Care
Wayne Community College
City of Goldsboro
Mt. Olive Pickles
Case Farms
Butterball
Megaforce
JMA Placement
Lincoln Learners continues to provide a space where children in grades K through 7 can learn, grow, and explore. Students take part in science activities, art, engineering projects, and gardening while building confidence and teamwork.
Students are recognized as Junior Master Gardeners of North Carolina and are learning financial skills through the Lincoln Bucks system.
West Haven Whiz Kids afterschool program gives youth a safe and engaging space to learn, grow, and connect after school with hands on activities and leadership discussions.
The HACG Hornets had a strong showing at the 32nd Annual SERC MLK Basketball and Cheer Tournament in Bessemer, Alabama marked by competition, community, and championship moments. The 18U basketball team brought home first place, and the high school cheer squad also earned first place in their division.
Shauna Austin shared a special moment capturing her kids enjoying the snow during the February 1, 2026 winter storm with nearly 7.5 inches of snowfall in Goldsboro.
Congratulations to the Goldsboro High School Lady Cougars on winning the 3A NCHSAA Women's Championship. A special shoutout to Nieirah Smith for being part of this championship team.
Our DIY class at the Dupont Center with Sharhonda Williams brought residents together to create decor pieces. Another session is scheduled for April 30 at 12 PM with pre registration by April 20.
We host a variety of events throughout the month including Bingo, Basic Driving Classes, afterschool programs, and community connections.
New Leadership
The Board of Commissioners of the Housing Authority of the City of Goldsboro (HACG) is pleased to announce the hiring of Michele Wiggins as the organization's new Chief Executive Officer.
Ms. Wiggins brings extensive experience in housing administration and community development. She previously served with HACG as Director of Grant Management from 2015 to 2020 and as Director of Strategy and Innovation from 2020 to 2021. Most recently, she worked with the North Carolina Department of Public Safety as a Housing Opportunities Manager, overseeing a portfolio exceeding $200 million in HUD CDBG-DR and HUD CDBG-MIT funding. Her established working relationships with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development at both the state and federal levels will be a significant asset to the Authority.
Chair Archibald shared, "Ms. Wiggins' depth of experience, proven leadership, and passion for serving our community make her an outstanding choice to lead HACG. Her desire to return and work closely with our staff, residents, and community stakeholders reflects her strong commitment to our mission"
The Board also expressed its sincere appreciation to Mrs. Sharita Oates, Chief Operating Officer of HACG, who has served as Interim CEO since the departure of previous leadership. During the past six months, Ms. Oates provided stability, led with compassion, and managed daily operations with grace and professionalism. She will continue to serve the Authority in her role as COO.
"On behalf of the entire Board, I want to thank Mrs. Oates for her exceptional leadership and dedication during this transitional period," Archibald stated. "Her steady guidance ensured continuity and confidence for our staff and residents."
Ms. Wiggins is currently working with the Board of Commissioners to finalize her start date, which will follow the completion of her professional notice period.
The Housing Authority City of Goldsboro looks forward to this new chapter of leadership and remains committed to strengthening housing opportunities and improving quality of life for the residents of Goldsboro.