Eviction Rent Assistance Program (ERAP) Expands Eligibility Requirements and Coverage

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Submitted by Thurston County

The Eviction Rent Assistance Program (ERAP), as administered by the Community Action Council of Lewis Mason and Thurston Counties (CAC), has expanded to offer assistance to renters from broader income levels and for a longer amount of time. The program can now provide rent assistance for up to six months of unpaid or partially unpaid rent and clients can access the program more than once.

Thurston County has contracted with the CAC to administer the Eviction Rent Assistance Program which is funded by the CARES Act and managed by Washington State Department of Commerce at the state level.

Eligible applicants must be at or below 80% Area Median Income, based on the last 60 days. This was previously set at or below 50% Area Median Income. Additional eligibility requirements include the applicant must have at least one month rent unpaid or partially paid since March and be experiencing at least one risk factor from a list developed by Washington State Department of Commerce. The program can cover up to six months of unpaid or partially unpaid rent, which has changed from the previous three-month limit. Clients can also now access the program more than once.

“We encourage any renter in Thurston County who needs help with current or past-due rent to contact the Community Action Council.” said Tom Webster, Manager of Thurston County Office of Housing and Homeless Prevention. “The staff members of the CAC are working with each applicant to match them with the available assistance that best meets their needs.”

Request an appointment with the Community Action Council online or by phone. CAC contact information is at www.erap-help.com/CACLMT, or (360) 348-1100, select 8 for Housing and then 7 for the ERAP.

Applicants between ages 18-24 must apply with Community Youth Services: communityyouthservices.org, 360-280-8114, or emai rentsupport@communityyouthservices.org.

For more information about the Thurston County Office of Housing and Homeless Prevention, visit: www.co.thurston.wa.us/health/sscp.

 

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