(a) The legislature finds that:
(1) every resident of this state should have a decent, safe, and affordable living environment;
(2) government at all levels should be involved in assisting individuals and families of low income in obtaining a decent, safe, and affordable living environment; and
(3) the development and diversification of the economy, the elimination of unemployment or underemployment, and the development or expansion of commerce in this state should be encouraged.
(b) The highest priority of the department is to provide assistance to individuals and families of low and very low income who are not assisted by private enterprise or other governmental programs so that they may obtain affordable housing or other services and programs offered by the department.