We are partnering with The Opportunity Council to try and get word out to our Whatcom County residents that might qualify for payment assistance if they are behind on rent or mortgage payments. These are such intensely challenging times and you are not alone if you find yourself in need of help. Please use, share and connect those around you with the resources we have available to us. If you want help determining if you are eligible please don’t hesitate to reach out and connect with me (Ashley, adelatour@futuresnw.org) or call the rental assistance line at 360-734-5121.
Program guidelines (provided by Opportunity Council):
The Opportunity Council will be receiving CARES Act dollars to serve Whatcom Co households with Rental Assistance (ERAP). These funds will be available approximately Sept 1-Dec 31, 2020. They are designed to serve households who are below 50% AMI and have unpaid rent. Someone in the household also must meet at least one additional criterion in order to be eligible:
Rent burdened: 50% or more of current monthly income is needed to pay rent.
Previously homeless within the last five years. This includes experiences of couch surfing/double up.
Eviction history within the last seven years.
Housing disrupted due to household member race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, or religion.
At risk of severe illness as per CDC (62 or older, underlying condition).
Disability of any member of the household. Includes a physical, developmental, mental, or emotional impairment, including impairment caused by alcohol or drug abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, or brain injury. A person with HIV/AIDS is considered disabled.