Help with first month rent and security deposit for a new place in Raleigh

(Request from Latoya in Raleigh, North Carolina) Do you help with first month rent and security deposit for a new place because am about homeless in two days. I was approve my a place but I just need help with the first month rent and security deposit.

Dear Latoya,

There are a few organizations located in Raleigh that can assist with rent payments. While it might be possible to get help with your first month’s rent, or with a security deposit for your new landlord, getting help with both is more difficult.

Lutheran Family Services

One organization that may be able to provide some assistance is Lutheran Family Services in the Carolinas. The organization provides transitional housing services as well as rental assistance. There is a Raleigh office and you may be able to get assistance by calling 919–832–2620. In addition the rental assistance there is Also some limited transportation assistance provided by the organization.

Salvation Army

There may be additional assistance with your security deposit through the Salvation Army. The agency normally accept referrals from other organizations including request for security deposit grants so it is important to ask the case manager if you qualify for benefits.

Wake County Supportive Housing

You may wish to get in contact with Wake County Supportive Housing. This special program is administered through Wake County Human Services which is a local government agency. Wake County Supportive Housing does more than just give out grants for rental assistance or security deposits. Instead wake County supportive housing provides transitional housing opportunities and reduced rent options which can be a much more affordable alternative to trying to pay market rent. Even if you have bad credit there are programs available through Wake County Supportive Housing that can help you get into a nice clean and safe environment simply by committing to making changes and setting goals toward self-sufficiency. You may find that the ready to rent program is one of the best ways to get back on track, since it connects you with landlords in reduced rent communities that are willing to overlook certain credit mishaps in exchange for your commitment to attend classes, build savings and work towards improving your credit.

For more information about housing programs through Wake County Human Services, call 919-212-9379. The case manager will help evaluate your situation, connect you with any resources that are available and can potentially direct you into programs that are a better fit for you and your situation.

You may find that no organization has the necessary funding to provide both first month rent and security deposit in Raleigh. Still, you may be able to get some partial financial aid as well as alternatives that can be even better.