Privacy Policy

Privacy Policy for the City of Tampa Housing Authority

Ensuring Confidentiality and Protection of Personal Information

Introduction
The City of Tampa Housing Authority (THA) is committed to protecting the privacy and confidentiality of our clients, employees, and partners. This privacy policy outlines how we collect, use, disclose, and safeguard personal information in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Information Collection

Types of Information Collected
The THA collects various types of personal information, including but not limited to:

·         Personal Identification Information: Name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and government-issued identification numbers.

·         Contact Information: Telephone numbers, email addresses, and mailing addresses.

·         Financial Information: Income, employment history, bank account details, and credit history.

·         Housing Information: Current and previous rental history, household composition, and housing preferences.

·         Demographic Information: Gender, ethnicity, and disability status.

Methods of Information Collection
Personal information may be collected through various methods, including:

·         Application forms for housing assistance and other services.

·         Interviews and meetings with THA staff.

·         Electronic submissions through our website and online portals.

·         Third-party sources such as employers, financial institutions, and government agencies.

Use of Information
The THA uses personal information for the following purposes:

·         To determine eligibility for housing assistance and other programs.

·         To provide and manage housing services and support.

·         To communicate with clients regarding their applications, services, and benefits.

·         To comply with legal and regulatory requirements.

·         To conduct research and analysis to improve our services and programs.

Disclosure of Information
The THA may disclose personal information to third parties under the following circumstances:

·         With the individual's consent.

·         To service providers and partners who assist in delivering our services and programs, subject to confidentiality agreements.

·         To government agencies and regulatory bodies as required by law.

·         In response to legal processes such as subpoenas, court orders, and legal investigations.

·         To protect the rights, property, and safety of the THA, our clients, employees, and the public.

Data Security
The THA is dedicated to safeguarding personal information through the implementation of appropriate security measures. These measures include:

·         Physical security controls to protect against unauthorized access to our facilities and records.

·         Technical security controls such as encryption, firewalls, and secure access protocols.

·         Administrative controls including staff training and policies to ensure the proper handling and protection of personal information.

Access to Information
Individuals have the right to access and review their personal information held by the THA. Requests for access can be made by contacting the THA Public Relations. We will respond to such requests in a timely manner, subject to verification of the individual's identity.

SMS Consent (Text Messaging)
Your SMS consent is not shared with third parties for marketing purposes. We respect your privacy and will only use your SMS consent to communicate directly with you regarding housing-related matters.

SMS Terms and Conditions
By opting into SMS through a web form or other medium, you consent to receive SMS messages from Tampa Housing Authority. These messages include appointment scheduling, appointment reminders, post-visit instructions, lab notifications, and billing notifications. The frequency of messages may vary. Standard message and data rates may apply.

Correction of Information
If individuals believe that their personal information held by the THA is inaccurate or incomplete, they have the right to request corrections. Requests for corrections can be made by contacting the THA Public Relations department. We will make the necessary updates promptly upon verification.

Retention of Information
The THA retains personal information only for as long as necessary to fulfill the purposes for which it was collected and to comply with legal and regulatory requirements. Records are securely disposed of when no longer needed.

Contact Information
For questions or concerns regarding this privacy policy or the handling of personal information, please contact:

Public Relations Department

City of Tampa Housing Authority

5301 W Cypress St, Tampa, FL 33607

Phone: (813) 341-9101

Email: PublicRelations@thafl.com

Policy Updates
The THA reserves the right to update this privacy policy at any time. Changes will be posted on our website and will take effect upon posting. We encourage individuals to review this policy periodically to stay informed about how we protect personal information.

Conclusion
The City of Tampa Housing Authority is committed to maintaining the highest standards of privacy and confidentiality. By implementing this privacy policy, we aim to build trust with our clients, employees, and partners, ensuring that their personal information is handled with the utmost care and respect.