43,000 Renters in Colorado Need Our Help
Families at risk of eviction or foreclosure don’t know about the Emergency Rental Assistance Program.
Renters and property owners all over Colorado are crying out for a solution to the housing crisis that is affecting our state. Many Colorado renters don’t know about the Emergency Rental Assistance Program — a resource designed to help them stay in their homes and help housing providers to weather the housing crisis fueled by a global pandemic.
Tens of thousands of people across our state are having trouble paying their rent or mortgage. The Emergency Rental Assistance Program was established to address this issue — but Colorado’s share of the federal funds is $690 million and only about $168 million has been paid out as of October 31, 20211.
1. Colorado Sun: Colorado’s ERAP for renters, as of October 2021
BARRIERS TO RENTER ASSISTANCE
59% of Colorado renters have never heard of the Emergency Rental Assistance Program.
Renters who need the assistance the most are the least familiar with the program - especially rural residents, renters over age 65, retirees, single women, people of color, and renters with income under $50,000 a year.
Renters who are most in need of assistance are also least likely to have home internet access. Many say they need help from someone able to answer questions while filling out the application.
People who have applied report long waiting periods for approval and to receive benefits.
Renters and property owners, click below to visit Colorado's Emergency Rental Assistance Program website. LEARN MORE AND APPLY BEFORE IT'S TOO LATE!
WAYS TO FIX RENTAL ASSISTANCE IN COLORADO
The Emergency Rental Assistance program is designed to pay either the renter or the landlord directly to cover the costs of rental payments. The Colorado Legislature must make sure the system works for renters and landlords. Additional ideas to improve the rental assistance program include:
Having more people available to answer questions over the phone about the rental assistance application process and helping applicants complete the necessary paperwork.
Improving the distribution and notification process of federal funds to renters and landlords seeking assistance.
Having the state recruit and partner with organizations that can assist renters and landlords — so renters can stay in their homes. Organizations such as housing agencies, libraries, and community-based organizations (CBOs) can help spread the word, provide space and internet access, and volunteer assistance.