Community Services

This funding is used to provide emergency financial assistance to families who seek services through the Emergency Intervention Program.  This funding provides rental assistance, utility assistance and supportive services directly related to the prevention of homelessness to eligible individuals and families who are in danger of eviction or homelessness or are currently homeless.  Families can only receive assistance through Homeless Prevention once in a 24-month period.

 

 

Purpose of Homeless Prevention

This funding is used to provide emergency financial assistance to families who seek services through the Emergency Intervention Program.  Homeless Prevention funds provide rental assistance, utility assistance and supportive services directly related to the prevention of homelessness to eligible individuals and families who are in danger of eviction, foreclosure or homelessness or are currently homeless. The program is designed to stabilize individuals and families in their existing homes, shorten the amount of time that individuals and families stay in shelters and assist individuals and families with securing affordable housing.

 

 

What services are offered?

• Payment of rent arrears to prevent eviction.

• Payment of a rent or security deposit.

• Payment of utility bills and arrearage.

• Supportive services to prevent homelessness or repeated episodes of homelessness.

 

Who can receive these services?

Persons who may be eligible include households that are in immediate danger of eviction or homelessness or are currently homeless. The household must document a temporary economic crisis beyond its control and must be able to demonstrate an ability to meet the prospective rental/utility obligations after the assistance has been granted based on current or anticipated income. 

 

Appointments are necessary.  Families interested may call our office at (815) 758-3910 and speak with a case manager to schedule an appointment.  One hour is allowed for an appointment and during this time it is determined if a family is eligible for financial assistance and how much we can help with.  Families can only receive assistance through Homeless Prevention once in a 24-month period.