WACOG Provides Rental Assistance to Yuma, La Paz and Mohave Counties

Western Arizona counties of Yuma, La Paz and Mohave are all served by a government nonprofit organization that can assist with rent in times of need. The Western Arizona Council of Governments (WACOG) provides financial support to low income households who are at risk of homelessness due to rent problems.

WACOG has served vulnerable populations of western Arizona since 1971. It is the community action agency in service for this area.

While there is an emphasis on elderly households and single mothers with children, any low income individual or family may receive services as long as they meet eligibility criteria. An application must be completed. Furthermore, you will meet with a case manager who will make a determination of your needs based on an intake process and subsequent personal counseling session.

WACOG offices are located in all three counties so that you can find help nearby. To apply for rental assistance funds, contact the office closest to you:

  • Yuma County
    • 221 S. 3rd Ave, Yuma, AZ 85364. 928-782-1886
  • Mohave County
    • 1984 Hwy 95, Ste 4, Bullhead City, AZ 86442. 928-753-3663
    • 208 N. 4th St, Kingman, AZ 86401. 928-753-6247
    • 232 London Bridge Rd, Lake Havasu, AZ 86403. 928-680-7978
  • La Paz County
    • 1713 Kofa, Ste D, Parker, AZ 85344. 928-669-9496
    • 305 N. Plymouth Ave, Quartzsite, AZ 85346. 928-669-9466

Operating hours are generally from 8 am to 5 pm, but you will need to set up an appointment in advance since some locations are by appointment only.

The idea behind the rental assistance program is simple. By helping you maintain your current residence, it may actually be cheaper than providing transitional housing for your family later. Eviction prevention is a huge priority for all community action agencies, and WACOG is no exception.

It is important to know what types of situations might warrant a handout when you cannot pay your rent. Some events may qualify while others will be disallowed.

For example, if you were laid off due to no fault of your own and find yourself in between jobs for 1-4 months, this would be an excellent fit. However, if you quit your job or used your rent money for a high car payment, then you may be steered into a financial counseling session rather than given money for rent.

Other situations might suggest that a grant to pay your rent might be warranted. Perhaps you were hit with an unexpected illness. Were you a victim of a car accident? Do you have a sick child? What if your car suddenly died? Any of these life events could jeopardize your financial security and make paying your rent an extreme hardship.

To see what types of rental assistance you may qualify for, you should call a case manager at WACOG right away. Be prepared to answer questions about your annual household income and your typical monthly bills. Since the rental assistance program is popular, you should call them right away so that you have time to schedule a consultation prior to getting evicted from your home.

Keep in mind that WACOG has many resources and programs designed to help. Rental assistance is just one area that they may be able to help. You may also be eligible for help with your utility bills or telephone, making this one of your best options when borrowing from friends or family just is not an option. Problems with rent can affect anyone when a hardship occurs. Give WACOG a call today and get started on your path of recovery and self-sufficient living.