Rental assistance in Mecosta County

It has been many years since I lived in Big Rapids working a summer job. Today I still remember the financial difficulties people had paying the rent and other bills in Mecosta County.

Fortunately there is some relief available to those who are falling behind on rent and cannot seem to catch a break. These local agencies can step in to prevent eviction and provide general relief to eligible households.

DHS

The Michigan Department of Human Services is the first agency that should be contacted when a family is threatened with possible homelessness. Whether an eviction notice has been served or the landlord has indicated that they are losing patience, tenants cannot wait until it is too late to start taking action. Delinquent rent is cause for eviction, and no one wins when an eviction is ordered.

DHS provides cash assistance and emergency relief to Mecosta County families who earn very low income. To request an interview with a social worker, call 231-796-4300. The local DHS office is located on Water Tower Road in Big Rapids.

Some cash aid is paid directly by DHS. Case workers may also refer some clients to Project Starburst for help with other household needs, such as food and utility payments.

Salvation Army

While most Salvation Army chapters limit living assistance to emergency motel vouchers, the Big Rapids chapter has been fortunate enough to receive some funding that can be used to help families who are struggling with financial hardships. Funding can be provided to some families who meet eligibility criteria.

This cash aid can be used to cover arrears owed to a landlord who is threatening to evict over late rent. The aid can be paid to the landlord on behalf of a delinquent tenant.

Obviously not all applicants will qualify for aid. Some households that earn too much will instead be directed towards other resources. Some applicants who do not have sufficient income to remain in the home may fail the feasibility test. This simply states that assistance cannot be approved if it will not help the family permanently remain in the rental home. Temporary drops in income may not disqualify a family, but chronic unemployment could.

Any individual who would like to speak with the social services staff may visit the Salvation Army office on Linden Street in Big Rapids. Call 231-796-5597 to request an appointment and an application.

Rental Loans

Two nonprofit lenders in Mecosta County can offer employed tenants a way to catch up on loan arrears and repay that loan over many months. It saves on late fees and avoids the embarrassment associated with eviction.

• West Michigan Credit Union has an open membership policy for residents of Mecosta County. Unsecured loans to cover rent arrears start as low as 6.99% APR (published rate at press time), though rates are subject to increases due to economic conditions. Some applicants may not qualify or may be charged a higher rate due to credit concerns. Call 231-796-6256 or visit a credit union representative at 825 Division Street in Big Rapids.
• Community First Federal Credit Union serves Mecosta County residents through its Lakeview branch office. An open membership policy is in place. Call 989-352-6031 for the N. Greenville Road branch.