The Landlord Liaison Project is a model piloted in Seattle/King County that helps bridge the gap between low-income individuals seeking housing and property owners. In Waco, the Landlord Liaison Project is administered by Heart of Texas Region MHMR with support from the federally-funded housing navigator housed there. The housing navigator serves as a 'liaison' between landlords and individuals facing barriers to securing stable housing. Often, individuals who can afford to pay the monthly rent for a suitable apartment are rejected based on a variety of factors, including mental illness, criminal history, past substance abuse, or low income. The landlord liaison develops relationships with landlords who are willing to lower barriers for at-risk individuals who are being served by case management support from a local social service agency. In exchange for renting to these individuals, the landlord is provided a financial guarantee in the event that the individual breaks the lease or causes damage to the property. The property owner is also encouraged to contact the case manager assigned to the tenant at the first sign of concern. This allows the case manager to proactively work with their client so that they continue to be a model tenant and maintain stable housing. Grant support for this program is generously provided by Cooper Foundation.

The Landlord Liaison Project serves individual in Waco/McLennan County who face barriers to acquiring stable housing and are participating in a case management program through a local social service agency. The project staff also serve property owners who are willing to rent to riskier tenants by ensuring that tenants continue to be supported by case management, that property owners have contact information for the case managers who support their tenants, and that property owners are reimbursed for losses incurred by renting to individuals participating in the program.

Stable, quality housing is one of the most important factors in achieving positive outcomes for low-income individuals as well as people suffering from a range of conditions such as homelessness, mental illness, and substance abuse. Once stable housing is secured, service providers are more successful in providing the other supports necessary to help people overcome their challenges. Additionally, stable housing makes it easier for individuals to maintain employment, which increases their financial security and reduces their dependence on public services.