Lexington’s rental assistance program just got a big boost. Here’s how to get help
Kentucky is pouring millions of additional dollars into a Fayette County program that has helped thousands of local families stay in their homes and keep the lights on.
Tuesday, Gov. Andy Beshear joined Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton in announcing that state officials will award an additional $11.7 million to the city to enhance its eviction relief efforts.
So far, Lexington’s Housing Stabilization Program has helped more than 3,500 individual households and more than 700 separate landlords, said Charlie Lanter, housing advocacy and community development commissioner.
That’s roughly 1 out of every 18 rental households here, Lanter said.
What does the additional state investment mean for tenants and landlords in Lexington and Fayette County?
The influx of additional cash will go toward supporting the city’s eviction prevention program through the end of 2022. So far, the average award per household has totaled about $4,600, officials said.
In the bigger picture, more relief to help people stay in their homes could also help them get back to work and keep their jobs.
The additional funding from the state comes at an opportune time as war between Russia and Ukraine drives up gas prices, which will in turn increase the cost of everything delivered by gas-powered vehicles.
Where can I go to get rental assistance in Lexington?
Administration of Lexington’s Housing Stabilization Program has changed hands a few times over the course of the pandemic. Community Action, a nonprofit, is currently managing the program and to that end has hired 30 additional staffers to help process applications.
Fayette County residents who meet the eligibility criteria can apply for relief at their website, commaction.org.
What are the eligibility requirements for tenants?
According to Community Action, residents qualify if they meet the following requirements:
- A Fayette County resident
- Make 80% below the area median income
- A certification household member has qualified for unemployment benefits or has experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs or experienced other financial hardship due directly or indirectly to the pandemic
- Possesses a certification their household is at risk of homelessness by a pending eviction or a past due notice or unsafe or unhealthy living conditions
According to U.S. Census Bureau figures, the median income for individuals in Kentucky was $26,653 in 2019. For households, the median was $50,589.
What are the eligibility requirements for landlords
To be eligible, landlords must:
- Forgive all late fees, penalties and interest related to nonpayment of rent
- Agree not to evict due to past-due renters prior to March 2020
- Have a current rental agreement
- Agree to give 45 days’ notice for any future eviction, not to be initiated until at least 30 days after assistance concludes
- Agree to terms of late payment settlement and submit the necessary paperwork
Are their eviction relief programs for those outside Fayette County?
Jefferson and Fayette counties have their own eviction relief programs.
Those living in any one of Kentucky’s other 118 counties should apply for relief through the Team Kentucky Healthy at Home website.
What other options do I have to get help?
The Kentucky Equal Justice Center offers an online application for three different groups of people:
- Renters facing eviction in Kentucky
- Lawyers helping renters facing eviction in Kentucky
- Allies who want to protect people from being evicted during a pandemic.
You can also call 211 from any phone or text your five-digit zip code to 898211 to find emergency shelter, food, housing, health care, employment and more. This resource is also available online.