Financial Assistance Available to Renters

CORONAVIRUS

From Staff Reports

Chapel Hill residents in urgent need of rent relief during the coronavirus pandemic may be eligible for a one-time payment of up to $2,000.

Because of the economic downturn resulting from COVID-19 and ensuing job losses, the Chapel Hill Town Council has allocated $135,000 to assist residents struggling with unpaid rent. The move comes on the heels of the town recently updating its Rental and Utility Assistance Program to better serve more people facing emergency housing needs. The program provides financial assistance to secure affordable rental housing or prevent impending eviction for low income residents. 

 Households, and agencies on behalf of eligible households, can apply for a one-time payment of up to $2,000 to assist with rental payments, including:

• Security deposits, utility connections and arrears
• Rental payments and arrears
• Other urgent housing-related costs in emergency situations

Rental Assistance Applications are available for residents or for referring agencies. Applications may be sent to HousingHelp@orangecountync.gov.

Residents who may be eligible to receive rental assistance would need to be low-income, demonstrate an urgent need and show that they do not have adequate savings to cover their current housing costs. For more information on eligibility criteria visit the Town’s Rental and Utility Assistance Webpage.

The town is partnering on the initiatives with local nonprofit agencies, the Orange County Housing and Community Development Department, the Towns of Carrboro and Hillsborough, and the Orange County Housing Helpline to work with residents who need rental assistance.

A portion of the funds allocated by the council action also may be used for homeownership assistance to support in the prevention of foreclosure for low to moderate income residents. The town is currently finalizing the details of this program.

For more information, contact Nate Broman-Fulks, affordable housing manager, at nbfulks@townofchapelhill.org. 

Anyone who needs support securing affordable housing or emergency rental assistance should call the housing helpline at 919-245-2655.