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"Kokomo Housing Authority Recognized with NMA Housing Award for Resident Services"
Nan McKay & Associates honors community-driven summer meals program in Howard County
KOKOMO, Ind., October 30, 2025 — Nan McKay & Associates (NMA) has named the Housing Authority of the City of Kokomo (KHA) a recipient of the NMA Housing Award in the Resident Service Award (Small Agency) category, recognizing the agency’s swift, community-wide response that kept students fed when state funding for summer meals was withdrawn.
When Indiana announced it would not participate in the federal SUN Bucks program — a summer nutrition initiative that had helped families cover food costs during school breaks — the decision left local students without access to daily meals. In response, the Kokomo Housing Authority rallied churches, nonprofits, and public partners to launch the Howard County Summer Lunch Program, which delivered more than 3,500 meals to 780 students through neighborhood distribution sites.
“Receiving the NMA Resident Service Award is an incredible honor, and a reflection of what community can achieve in a moment of crisis. When our students were at risk of losing daily meals over the summer, local organizations, churches, and public agencies came together to fill the gap. With just a few weeks of notice, we were able to put together a program that served more than 3,500 meals to 780 students. This award recognizes more than just the efforts of one organization; it highlights the power of community leadership at its best.” — Derick W. Steele, Executive Director, Kokomo Housing Authority
“Agencies like the Kokomo Housing Authority show what excellence in resident service looks like,” said John McKay, CEO of Nan McKay & Associates. “The NMA Housing Award exists to spotlight practical, people-first solutions that measurably improve lives. KHA identified a critical need, mobilized partners, and delivered results quickly. That’s the spirit of this award and the kind of leadership we’re proud to recognize across the country.”
The NMA Housing Award program celebrates exceptional achievement in development and resident services, highlighting innovation, execution, and lasting community impact across the affordable-housing field. Winners receive national recognition and a profile feature showcasing replicable practices and lessons learned.
About the NMA Housing Award
Each year, the NMA Housing Awards highlight excellence in the affordable housing industry. The awards honor agencies whose programs and developments create lasting community change, demonstrating innovation, collaboration, and measurable results in both housing development and resident services. These awards provide national recognition for local success stories that set new standards for impact in communities across the country.
About the Housing Authority of the City of Kokomo
The Housing Authority of the City of Kokomo (KHA) provides affordable housing and resident services for families in Howard County, Indiana. Through partnerships with local organizations, KHA advances stability, opportunity, and well-being for the residents it serves. Learn more at kokomoha.org
About Nan McKay and Associates (NMA)
NMA has been strengthening neighborhoods since 1980. With more than 600 full-time and contract employees across offices in California, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, and Kentucky, our San Diego-based, woman-owned company is recognized as one of the most effective, strategic, and compliance-focused organizations serving communities nationwide. NMA’s expertise includes everything from program administration and inspections to community development strategies.
