Are you behind on your rent or utility payments due to COVID-19 financial impacts? If so, you may be eligible for assistance through the Emergency Rental Assistance Program.
Douglas County will distribute $8.4 million in direct assistance using funds received from the U.S. Treasury Department through the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021. These funds will be used to assist qualified Douglas County renters with arrears or future rent or utility payments through 2021.
Renters in Douglas County, Colorado who are behind on their rent or utility payments are encouraged to review eligibility information to see if you qualify and apply beginning March 1, 2021.
“Colorado began 2020 with the nation’s fifth lowest unemployment rate and now has our country’s fourth highest unemployment rate. Many in our community are unemployed or have experienced financial hardship due to COVID-19, struggling to pay their rent and utilities,” said Commissioner and Vice Chair, Abe Laydon. “Douglas County wants to do everything possible to help our citizens get back on their feet.”
The County has partnered with five local nonprofits to process applications and distribute payments directly to the landlord, property manager or utility provider. Qualified renters may click here to apply for assistance through one of the following partners: Catholic Charities, Douglas County Housing Partnership, Help & Hope Center, Manna Resource Center or The Rock Church.
“In partnership with these organizations, we believe this program will help renters avoid evictions and have increased housing security,” said County Commissioner and Board Chair, Lora Thomas.
“This federal program is intended to help the hard-working families of Douglas County whose incomes were detrimentally impacted by the COVID-19 crisis,” said Commissioner George Teal.
Landlords, property managers or utility providers who have customers they believe may benefit from this program should direct them to douglas.co.us/rent-assistance. Renters, landlords, property managers and utility providers are also encouraged to join a Live Town Hall on March 10, 2021, at 5:30 p.m. to learn more and ask questions about eligibility and the application process.
Please note this program is intended for rent and associated utility obligations only and may not be used by homeowners for mortgage payments or utility costs. Please visit the Douglas County Housing Partnership for mortgage assistance.