WORCESTER – The City of Worcester and five local housing agencies have partnered to administer $1.9 million in rental assistance to eligible residents.
The City contracted the following agencies: Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance (CMHA), Friendly House, Inc., Open Sky Community Services, Worcester Community Action Council and Worcester Community Housing Resources.
“We know that renters and landlords are suffering right now, and this program, along with other available assistance, can be a much-needed lifeline in this time of need,” Mayor Joseph M. Petty said.
“Through no fault of their own, many Worcester families have found themselves unable to afford the basic necessities, such as a place to live,” City Manager Edward M. Augustus, Jr. said. “I encourage folks to avail themselves of this opportunity to help ease the strain imposed upon them by the COVID-19 virus.”
Eligibility requirements include:
- must qualify as low income or below 80 percent of annual median income
- be able to document loss of income due to the COVID-19 virus
- Worcester resident
Applicants meeting all eligibility requirements may receive up to $3,000 per tenant to cover arrearages in rent and household utility costs, including heating, hot water and electricity.
Applicants should contact the participating agencies directly through the contact information provided on their website.
For more information about the City of Worcester Rental Assistance Program, please visit www.worcesterma.gov/coronavirus/assistance.
