We are about to be evicted and need help with rent in Washington DC

(Request from Jacqueline in Washington, DC) I need help with my rent me and my family are,about to be evicted and I need assistance with my rent my rent that I owe is $428.00 I would need the money as soon as possible

Dear Jacqueline,

I am sorry to hear about the recent financial troubles experienced by your family. Being threatened with eviction can cause tremendous stress to your family, especially considering that the holidays are near. Thank you for providing the amount of rent that you owe as it provides some indication of what your actual financial needs are to prevent the eviction.

United Planning Organization

One of the key providers of DC rental assistance is United Planning Organization (UPO).The organization provides housing counseling programs to residents of Washington DC who are experiencing problems paying their normal living expenses.

UPO does not focus on chronic situations where a household struggles with persistent problems paying the rent. For those types of situations, referrals are made to the local housing agency.

What UPO does focus on is preventing evictions by providing emergency rental assistance. The primary goal is to help you overcome a short-term financial crisis so that it does not create a long-term economic hardship for your family. Substantial efforts are made to help you stay in your current rental property if it is something that you would be able to afford on a permanent basis after you receive the assistance.

You may speak with the rental counselor at UPO by calling 202-610-5900. Recently evicted tenants may call the shelter hotline at 800-535-7252.

District of Columbia Housing Authority

If you have experienced difficulty in paying your rent previously or have otherwise struggled to balance all of your monthly bills, then it could make sense to get help from the local housing authority. The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) provides reduced rent opportunities for lower-income households.

DCHA provides two primary opportunities for receiving rent subsidies. The traditional option involves applying to live in one of the 56 public housing communities that are administered by DCHA. Those who are selected from the lengthy wait list may be able to live just about anywhere in the DC area and benefit from a monthly rent subsidy. The subsidy is paid through the Housing Choice Voucher Program, which is commonly known as Section 8.

To request information about eligibility requirements, wait list and vacancies, you may call DCHA at 202-535-1000. Expect to meet with the case manager at the N. Capitol St., NE office for an interview as well as to submit an application.

Alliance for Children and Families

As a parent who is facing potential eviction over a modest amount owed, you might want to consider the possibility of being approved for a loan to help you pay your living costs this month. Loans start at $750 and can be used for a variety of needs.

If you are worried about your credit rating, do not fear. Alliance for Children and Families frequently approves loans to applicants who have been denied loans everywhere else. This is not a commercial lender. This organization helps families just like yours deal with financial crises that might otherwise cause an eviction and make it more difficult for you to take care of your family.

To receive special consideration for a loan to help pay your living costs and rent, call the organization at 202-223-3447.

Hopefully you are able to receive the assistance you need through one or more of these agencies. Anytime you or someone you know needs help with rent in Washington DC, these agencies are here to assist.