Marquette rental assistance paid through DHS emergency relief

Marquette rental assistance is provided through the county through a special emergency support program. The Marquette County Department of Human Services (DHS) is the local government agency that administers state funds that are reserved for helping needy families get through a temporary financial crisis.

Many housing authorities choose to provide permanent rental subsidies to households who cannot afford to pay their rent on a regular basis. A different approach to poverty is taken by Marquette County DHS.

The primary focus for Marquette rental assistance programs is on helping families get through a temporary financial situation. Case managers want to help each household deal with a specific financial crisis and get through the situation with self-sufficiency restored.

Case managers at the agency really want to help you become more self-sufficient rather than to have to rely on public assistance on an ongoing basis. By helping you get through a crisis, the goal is that you will avoid related hardships associated with eviction as well as to learn how to prepare for future problems of an unexpected nature. They would rather spend a small amount helping you now rather than have you fully dependent on public assistance due to an over-reliance on rental loans.

In order to be considered for benefits, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. Income restrictions ensure that only those households that most need help can receive the funds. DHS case managers will need to see proof of income for all household members to confirm that your family is indeed below the income threshold.

Help with Late Rent

Case managers will evaluate the seriousness of any delinquency to determine if the situation warrants an emergency rental assistance grant. If it is determined that you can afford to remain in your home and you are marginally delinquent then a cash payment to your landlord may be approved.

Since priority is given to those families who are facing homelessness you should bring your eviction notice as evidence to the urgency of your request. You also need to show documentation of your overall financial health including all utility bills over the past several months if you are also requesting help with late utility bills.

You’ll need to complete a full application and submit it in person at 234 W. Baraga Avenue in Marquette. Call 517-373-0707 for more information on benefits as well as to arrange to submit an application.