In need of emergency rent assistance in Harrisburg PA

(Request from Deniece in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania) I’m currently in between jobs and will not be able to pay my December’s rent. I’m starting my new job on December 9th, 2014 and will not be paid until the first week or two in January. I’m in need of emergency assistance with my rent. How long does it take to become eligible for this program?

Dear Deniece,

While you have a bit of a conundrum, at least you have replaced your income. This is good news. Most emergency real assistance programs require that you can prove two things.

First, they are looking to see that you had a bona fide hardship. Your job loss certainly provides evidence of that.

Secondly, you also need to show that you can bounce back from your recent crisis situation. The fact that you were able to find a new job and you are starting that new job soon is evidence that you will be able to afford to remain in your current rental home in the long-term. This is precisely the type of tenant that can be most successful on rental assistance programs.

There is one agency that I strongly encourage you to contact based on the rental assistance program that they operate in Dauphin County. HELP Ministries provides rental assistance in two primary areas.

The agency can assist if you are in a situation where you’re going to fall behind on your rent for December. HELP Ministries provides assistance with back rent, especially when it puts you in a situation where an eviction is imminent.

You’ll need to bring some information with you to prove that you qualify for benefits. First you need to have information on your income for the year. This is true for the entire household. Recent pay stubs can provide that evidence since they show year-to-date earnings.

Additionally you’ll need to show the documentation from your job loss. If you received a termination letter or have other unemployment documentation, this will be helpful. Finally, they sure that you bring in information about your current tunnel property. The case manager will need to see a copy of your lease as well as any eviction notice or other letter provided by your landlord.

To speak with the case manager, call 717-238-2851. HELP Ministries is one of the more prominent providers of emergency rental assistance in Harrisburg, PA.