Funds Available for Ventura County Renters Facing Eviction

Aug. 15, 2011 - PRLog -- VENTURA, CALIF.--Ventura County renters facing eviction may be eligible for emergency funds to help them remain in their home or apartment. The Homeless Prevention and Rapid Re-Housing Program (HPRP), funded by the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act of 2009 and administered through the County of Ventura Human Services Agency (HSA), is designed to be a stop-gap measure to keep renters from becoming homeless.
   
   "So many people live paycheck to paycheck. An unexpected car expense or medical bill means there is no money left to pay the rent," says Marissa Mach, HSA senior program manager. "The program is a bridge for renters who need a little extra help to get through a rough financial period. It offers housing stability, which is so important."

   To qualify, individuals need to meet eligibility criteria. All household members must show proof that they are Ventura County residents as well as U.S. citizens or qualified resident aliens. Aid recipients must be currently homeless or facing eviction within 30 days, meet specific household income limits, have no other housing options or financial resources and have the financial ability to maintain housing after the rental assistance is received.
 
   The program has already helped hundreds of county residents by providing eviction-prevention rental payments, rental deposits, budget management counseling, utility payments/deposits and one-time payments to cover moving and storage costs.

   Funding is limited so those who may qualify are urged to apply now. "HPRP does not help with mortgage payments," notes Mach. "It's strictly for renters."

   For more information or to see if you qualify, call 805-385-8585 or visit www.evictionpreventionvc.org .

# # #

About the County of Ventura Human Services Agency
The County of Ventura Human Services Agency provides public services that promote self-sufficiency, health and well-being. Our programs and services help ensure the protection of children, the elderly and dependent adults, and provide a safety net for individuals and families who need assistance with basic necessities, such as food, housing and health care. Additionally, we help people secure employment through education, training, job search skills, and job placement. www.vchsa.org