Somerset County Expands Rental Assistance Guidelines

Somerset County recently announced it has expanded the guidelines for the county’s rental assistance program.

The eligibility guidelines now include households where at least one adult is working and one is a disabled or elderly adults or provides care for a dependent child or adult, according to Somerset County officials.

“The goal of this program is to help working individuals and families achieve financial stability,” Freeholder Brian D. Levine, human services liaison, said in a release from the county. “It provides critical assistance to residents who may still be struggling due to the lagging economy.”

The rental assistance program of Somerset County provides participants with up to 15 months of rental assistance and monthly case management for eligible residents. A trained volunteer is also provided to help set goals promoting long-term financial stability, the county said.

Program applicants must demonstrate that they will be able to afford their housing without rental assistance within 15 months, the county said. Applicants must also have a formal lease at a rental rate that is less than the fair-market rent for the unit size.

Additionally, program participants must complete a monthly budget, attend a monthly meeting with the case manager and be willing to accept case management services. Applicants who meet the aforementioned requirements will be served on a first come, first serve basis after undergoing screening by the Somerset County Development Office.

For more information, contact the Somerset County Development Office at (908) 541-5756.