Dozens of city residents who have had trouble paying rent as a result of the pandemic or other economic hardships sought financial help at a housing assistance fair held yesterday at Government Center.
Mayor Paul Coogan last summer dedicated $1.5 million in Federal CARES Act funding to help residents behind on rental payments get back on track. The program is being organized and administered by Catholic Social Services, Inc. which is screening applicants seeking financial support. Even though the money has been available since last summer, legal circumstances have delayed the distribution of funds.
The city’s Community Development Agency is also helping to inform residents about the availability of rental assistance. Executive Director Michael Dion says the program can help renters pay for up to six months of back rent.
Dion says the rental assistance program comes at a time of widespread community need where both renters and landlords are seeking a resolution.
Even though the city’s funding focuses on rental assistance related to the pandemic, Catholic Social Services also has programs for renters facing other financial challenges.
For more information on options for rental assistance call 774-520-2555.
