For some families, affordable housing, although limited, is a possibility. Pat Palumbo, from Cupertino Community Services, said efforts are being made to create affordable housing for those who have difficulty affording the cost of living in Cupertino. According to Palumbo, there are 64 units in four different apartment complexes in Cupertino designated as affordable housing through the BMR program. Those who wish to apply for these units when they become available must live or work in Cupertino, or be a full-time student at De Anza College, and they must have a job. Palumbo said if an individual or family qualifies financially, they will go on a waiting list, which can be as long as eight months to a year.
Eligibility varies depending on family size and income.
The screening and qualifying for the program is done in accordance with the income guidelines printed by HUD each April. There has been a dramatic increase in demand for affordable housing, and the city is making every effort to create more. Donna Krey, Public Information Officer for Cupertino City Hall, said that through the BMR program there is a requirement for new apartment complexes to designate 10 percent of the apartments as affordable housing. According to Palumbo, the city is planning for more affordable housing, which will be available in the next year and a half. Sullivan said the number of help-wanted signs are directly in relation to the cost of living.