HAPCAP discontinues rental assistance programs serve Hocking, Athens and Perry County tenants

Hocking, Athens and Perry County Community Action Program (HAPCAP) has discontinued the rental assistance program serving these three Ohio counties.

HAPCAP previously administered the Homelessness Prevention and Rapid Re-housing Program (HPRP) serving Hocking, Athens and Perry County tenants. The primary purpose of the program was to support households who are encountering severe economic hardship so that they can reestablish themselves on firm financial footing.

Lower income renters previously would be able to apply for rental assistance to be used for a couple of approved purposes. Residents who were fighting to remain in their home or required help qualifying for a different rental property could previously contact HAPCAP to help with necessary funding and supportive case management.

The decision to drop the rental assistance program is not known, though it is indicative of a shift away from direct payouts to those in need. Some programs found better ways to spend the funds. Some saw cuts to block grants and other sources of funding. Some found that they had too many repeat clients who could never wean themselves off of a revolving door of assistance.

What we do know is that HAPCAP was able to provide rental aid to local residents for many years. As of this update the organization is no longer administering the program. It is unclear if this is a temporary change or if the program will permanently drop benefits.

They did have some restrictions in place to ensure that only households who are most in need and can benefit the most from the aid would actually receive it. Only lower income households were generally approved. Applicants had to show proof of all sources of income earned in the household. Furthermore, those applicants had to have received an eviction notice from their landlord before gaining approval. HAPCAP still works quickly to intervene when you are having trouble with money. Rental aid is out, but food aid and utility assistance are active programs.

Your case manager will take note of any recent financial hardships that you have encountered. Beyond the hardships though, you will need to show how your situation will improve on a permanent basis if HAPCAP approves any aid request. They want to see that their help will be enough to ensure that you can reestablish your financial independence.

Do not panic if you have received a notice to vacate the premises. Rent payments will not be made for you, but you may still benefit from some of the other support that could potentially transition out of a bad situation. The first step is to call HAPCAP right away at 740-767-4500 or 800-686-1093. You will have the opportunity to ask any initial questions about support programs. They will help you schedule an appointment with a case manager so that you can work through your problems and get started on the path towards self-sufficient living.

The representative will remind you of the things that you need to bring so that you can submit a complete application during your visit. The main office is on Cardaras Drive in Glouster.