The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, has provided Somerset County with approximately $500,000 for the Homeless Prevention Rapid Re-Housing Program. Funds will be used to provide six months of rental arrears, 12 months of rental assistance, utility payments, case management, tenant education and legal services.

The Homeless Prevention Rapid Re-Housing Program grant is unprecedented in the support that it will provide to individuals and families who need short-term assistance to secure or maintain permanent housing,” said Freeholder Patricia L. Walsh, human services liaison.

Funds are meant for individuals and families who are 1) at risk of becoming homeless because of a pending eviction, discharge within two weeks from an institution where one has resided for more than 180 days, residency in rental housing that has been condemned by a local housing official or sudden and significant loss of income or 2) currently homeless (residing in an emergency or transitional shelter or on the street).

All applicants MUST be able to document that they meet one of these criteria and meet income qualifications provided by HUD. Consideration also will be given to an applicant’s ability to pay rent once the program ends.

Applicants cannot exceed the following income guidelines per household: One person - $35,063, two people - $40,063, three people - $45,063, four people - $50,063, five people - $54,063 and six people - $58,063.

HUD's guidelines for this program only allow payments for rental assistance; mortgage costs are not eligible through this program.

Distressed homeowners should visit the HOPE NOW Web site at www.hopenow.com or call the program at 888-995-HOPE. Housing counseling and mediation services also are available locally through the Somerset County Coalition on Affordable Housing and First Baptist Community Development Corporation..

Prospective applicants should call the Somerset County Community Development Office at 908-541-5756..