A pilot program aimed to provide 222 seniors at risk of experiencing homelessness a rental subsidy is now accepting applications.
The County of San Diego Department of Homeless Solutions and Equitable Communities launched its program that will help eligible adults over 55 years old to provide $500 a month for 18 months to help them stabilize. According to the county, assistance payments are anticipated to begin this spring.
“Older adults, in particular people on fixed incomes, are struggling with rising rents and represent a growing part of our homeless population,” said Barbara Jiménez, Community Operations Officer who oversees the Department of Homeless Solutions & Equitable Communities. “This pilot program will help people remain in their homes while also offering light case management services to connect participants to supportive services.”
Eligible applicants must have a household income at or below 50 percent of the Area Median Income, be using more than half of their income toward housing, have their name on the lease or rental agreement, and have a landlord willing to participate in the program.
The applicant must not be receiving any other rental subsidies and must sign consent forms to participate in the program.
According to the county, pilot program participants who meet the eligibility criteria will be selected at random.
Those interested in applying for this rental subsidy program are asked to email ​​HSEC-OHS.HHSA@sdcounty.ca.gov with your full name and contact information or call 619-980-4168. Application assistance and translation services will be provided.