Please note that this program is currently closed and we are not accepting applications at this time.

What Is It?

The Cumberland County Emergency Rental Assistance Program is available for eligible households financially impacted by COVID-19. Eligible households are defined as a renter household in which at least one or more individuals meets
the following criteria:

  • Qualifies for unemployment or has experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced a financial hardship due to COVID-19, OR
  • Has qualified for unemployment benefits or experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced other financial hardship during or due, directly or indirectly, to the coronavirus pandemic;
  • Demonstrates a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability; and
  • Has a household income at or below 80% of the area median income level.

Eligibility

  • All applicants must live in Cumberland County.
  • All applicants must meet income eligibility criteria and must have a documented loss of income due to COVID-19 or during the coronavirus pandemic. Program recipients may not receive rental assistance from other sources to cover the same expense. After 6 months of assistance, applicants will need to provide copies of updated income documentation.
  • Renter households may apply for rent and/or utility assistance (arrears, current and future) for up to 18 months in 3 month increments.
  • Renter households and landlords may need to submit a new application at 12-15 months of assistance.
  • Renter households may seek assistance for any arrears beginning March 13, 2020.
  • Households may return for additional assistance if they continue to have a need.
  • Utilities are limited to electricity, gas, fuel oil, internet, water and sewer and trash removal.
  • Priority is given to those applicants that are below 50% of the area median income or unemployed for 90 days. The program limits eligibility to households with income that does not exceed 80% of area median income.
  • All payments will be made directly to the landlord or utility company, except in extreme circumstances.
HOUSEHOLD SIZE12345678
80% AMI$55,900$63,900$71,900$79,850$86,250$92,650$99,050$105,450
50% AMI$34,950$39,950$44,950$49,900$53,900$57,900$61,900$65,900