CARES Home Relief Rental Assistance Program

The funding period for this program has ended. New funding has been received for 2021. Click here to learn about the new program.

 

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Must be behind on rent or facing eviction, AND
  • Must live at or below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Level ($52,400 for a family of four in 2020), AND
  • Must have been directly affected by COVID-19 (loss of income, increased expenses, etc.), OR
  • Be a member of a population especially vulnerable to COVID-19

Documentation Requirements:

  • Photo ID
  • Social Security cards of all household members. If a member does not have a Social Security card, a birth certificate is needed. If you have recently applied for a card, an official letter from the Social Security office with the number printed on it and stating your card is in process is acceptable.
  • Income information for the past 30 days for all household members over 18, even if they are still in school. This includes check stubs, social security and, in some cases, child support. Income from self-employment requires additional documentation. For a complete list of income that must be counted, click here.
  • Any household member over 18 claiming no income must complete an affidavit. Click here for a downloadable copy.
  • Landlord's name, address, phone number and monthly rent amount.
  • A copy of your signed lease.
  • A copy of your quit notice (from your landlord) or eviction order (from the court) if applicable.
  • A W-9 and statement from your landlord will also be required.
  • A statement on how you have been impacted by COVID-19.

 

Funds are available for a very limited time and residents should apply immediately. LCCAA has hired temporary employees to process applications. Completing the Request for Assistance form will hold your place in line and you will be contacted to determine eligibility and complete your application.

Staff time will be dedicated to processing applications. The Agency will not be taking phone calls due to staffing constraints. Applicants will receive mailed updates which can be shared with landlords or courts as needed. 

Funds can be used to pay rent, deposits and any fees associated with maintaining your residence. Payments will be made directly to landlords. Landlords will be required to provide W-9 forms and to verify balances due.

 

 

LCCAA is working with a variety of local agencies to make sure these funds go to those most in need. These include:

  • United Way of Greater Lorain County and the partners of the United Community Assistance Network (UCAN)
  • Lorain County Children’s Services to assist emancipated youth facing homelessness or eviction.
  • Neighborhood Alliance which operates Haven Center, a homeless shelter for families.
  • Valor Home, which provides emergency shelter for homeless veterans. 

In addition, the Agency is connecting with Lorain County's eviction courts to share program information with residents facing eviction. Applicants facing eviction are asked to provide their case number and hearing date and will receive priority consideration.