COLUMBUS, Ind. — The City of Columbus has received an additional allocation from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and is accepting applications for its Rental Assistance Program to assist renters who are unemployed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Approximately $200,000 has been set aside to provide emergency financial assistance to pay rent and utilities for residents who have been furloughed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, have not been assisted by other community agencies, and who qualify as low-to-moderate income.
Renters must have proof of a delinquency from the landlord or utility and have documentation of financial hardship as well as documentation of future financial ability to pay. The assistance must bring the renter current with rental payments with the remainder of any delinquent payments being paid prior to assistance being granted.
Residents must reside within the boundaries of the City of Columbus.
Checks will be made payable to the landlord who is required to provide a Form W-9 to the city. Income verification documentation, a duplication of benefits form, and a copy of the current lease with a letter of delinquency and/or utility bills is also required.
Applications are available in English and Spanish on the City’s website and should be mailed, emailed, or dropped off to Administrative Resources association at 748 Franklin St.
ARa is administering the program for the city and will process applications on a first come, first served basis. For more information, visit the city’s website at www.columbus.in.gov or contact Victoria Bechert at ARa at (812) 376-9949.
For more on this story, see Tuesday’s Republic.
