Millions still available in rental assistance program

Listen to this article

More than $12.3 million is still available in Richland County’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program, which has approved more than $173,000 since launching April 5.

The U.S. Treasury awarded the county $12.5 million for the program, which can provide up to 12 months of rental and utility assistance, plus an additional three months if the county determines the extra months are needed to ensure housing stability and funding is available.

“The program is ongoing at this time and the Richland County team is here to help you,” Mike King, assistant director for Richland County Emergency Services Department, said in a news release.

Applications are available online at richlandcountysc.gov or by calling 855-216-9198.

The county’s Department of Government and Community Services is offering in-person assistance on a limited, by-appointment basis. Appointments can be scheduled by calling 803-576-1513.

A household must be renting or have rented during the pandemic and include at least individual who meets the following criteria:

• Qualifies for unemployment or has seen a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs or experienced financial hardship because of COVID-19
• Demonstrates a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability
• Has an annual household income at or below 80% of Richland County’s area median income.

Funding must be used to reduce past-due rent and utility balances before future rent payments can be made.