The Public Housing Program aims to provide decent and safe rental housing for eligible low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. The program is income-based, and the eligibility guidelines are set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

The program was created under the Housing Act of 1937 which authorized the establishment of State and Local Public Housing Authorities. These Housing Authorities own and manage housing units available to low-income families at a low cost. The job of East Point Housing Authority, pursuant to the HUD regulations, is to provide decent, safe, and sanitary housing in good repair to low-income families at affordable rent. East Point Housing Authority screens applicants for public housing, and if they are found eligible and accepted, East Point Housing Authority offers the applicant a unit. If the applicant accepts the offer, East Point Housing Authority will enter into a contract with the applicant known as the lease, becoming a tenant of the PH Program.

East Point Housing Authority receives its operating subsidy for the public housing program from HUD. A Public Housing Agency (PHA) is a governmental or public body, created through state-enabling legislation, to develop and operate housing and housing programs for low-income families. 

East Point Housing Authority enters into an Annual Contributions Contract (ACC) with HUD to administer the PH Program. East Point Housing Authority must ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and notices and must establish policies and procedures to clarify federal requirements and to ensure consistency in program operation. The Admission and Continued Occupancy Policy (ACOP) establishes guidelines for applicant eligibility and continued rental assistance.

East Point Housing Authority is not responsible for any resident's personal property. East Point Housing Authority encourages all residents to consider Renter's Insurance.