Atlantic County DFCD helps with back rent and security deposits

Households who experience financial hardship have access to emergency rental assistance funds thanks to the Atlantic County Department of Family and Community Development.

You work hard to pay the bills, but sometimes life’s little emergencies can cause you to fall short. County officials know that an accident, medical emergency or even job loss can cause you to quickly fall into a trap where you cannot afford to make your regular rent payments on-time. They also recognize that if you are kicked out of your current home that you would continue to depend on county services in order to get by.

To prevent your family from becoming another homeless statistic, funds have been allocated to help you retain your independence. There are a couple of key programs that are available to assist with your rental assistance needs.

• Emergency Assistance. If you are already receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), General Assistance (GA) or Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) funds, then you may have additional cash supports available to help with rent. If you are at risk of eviction, then the agency may be able to help fund your back rent payments so that you are all caught up. A case manager will determine whether your existing home is appropriate given your weakened financial condition. If they determine that the home is unaffordable or that there are cheaper vacancies that will meet your needs, then your case manager may instead suggest a move. In the case of a move, cash may be available for your first month’s rent, security deposit and even cover your security deposits for utilities. Call 609-348-3001 and ask for Emergency Assistance.
• Social Services for the Homeless (SSH). Emergency assistance is available if you find yourself homeless as a result of an eviction. Aid may initially cover a motel room, while funds can be provided to cover rent payments and security deposits if you need help moving into more permanent housing. Call 609-345-6700, extension 2717 to speak with a case manager.
• Comprehensive Emergency Assistance Services (CEAS). This service works in conjunction with SSH, providing a lifeline of community support to your household when you need help to keep a permanent roof over your head. Rent assistance and security deposits are available on a limited basis. Call 609-345-6700, extension 2985 or you may visit their Atlantic City office located at 1333 Atlantic Avenue (3rd Floor).

If you would like to see if you qualify for any programs prior to calling, you may utilize the New Jersey One App which screens for popular programs. Still, a case manager from one of the above programs may be aware of exceptions or other situations in which you might qualify for certain benefits or to be referred to another agency which does provide help for your situation.