City Awarded Federal Money for Rental Assistance
[COLUMBUS, OH] The City of Columbus and Council announced today $26.8 million in federal funding designated to help families in need of rent and utility assistance due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recognizing that the lowest income households are at the greatest risk for long-term housing instability, 60% of the funding will be targeted to households at 50% AMI and below or $42,100 for a family of four. The remaining 40% will be available to households at 80% AMI or $67,360 for a family of four.
“Community partnerships have been essential to getting rental assistance funding out to Columbus families in critical need since last summer,” said Councilmember Shayla Favor. “These additional dollars, along with our strong housing stability network, will go a significant way towards stabilizing even more families and helping them avoid a devastating eviction.”
The City will immediately distribute $10 million to IMPACT Community Action Agency to continue the HOPE Fund program. Additionally, Columbus will set aside $3 million for CelebrateOne. CelebrateOne will distribute the emergency rental assistance funds to community partners who will provide rental and utility assistance to families at high risk of infant mortality and maternal health complications.
“We know the importance of stable housing for families,” said Mayor Andrew J. Ginther. “This funding will allow for more of neighbors to stay in their homes during this unprecedented time.”
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