Affordable housing vouchers are in short supply in the Valley.

Staunton and Waynesboro have stopped taking them because their waiting lists are too long.

However, Harrisonburg resumed taking applications this week, and hundreds lined up to get their appointment.

Wanda Stevens-Ruckman of the Staunton Redevelopment and Housing Authority says Section 8 housing is extremely popular because it's so private.

"People have a tendency to stereotype, and with Section 8, you don't know that unless you choose to tell people that you're receiving assistance, and that makes it really kind of neat, and I think it's most important for families and children," says Stevens-Ruckman.

Rebekah Early is a mom of two kids and says giving them a home to be proud of would be a dream come true.

"You look forward to saying I can provide a stable place for your kids, and then you really go into every resource you can," comments Early.

However, even with assistance, many find it difficult to stretch a dollar any further, especially in a college town like Harrisonburg where rent can be expensive.

"I can't afford $800 or $900 a month for my kids, plus food, plus clothing, plus every day life expenses," says Early.

Many people apply for vouchers wherever the shortest waiting list is open. Stevens-Ruckman says many then take the vouchers to Staunton.

"People come to an area that's more quiet and more affordable, and Staunton's a great place. That's part of it as well," adds Stevens-Ruckman.

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