I need a grant or rental assistance loan in Lynnwood, WA
(Request from Matthew in Lynnwood, Washington) I am in need of a one-time assistance loan or grant to help prevent eviction of me and my son from our home.
Dear Matthew,
Lynnwood and Snohomish County eviction prevention is a challenge shared by several organizations that attempt to pick up where the local housing authority falls short. The Housing Authority of Snohomish County (HASCO) does provide subsidized housing for families who cannot afford regular rent payments, but it falls woefully short on the emergency housing assistance that you are looking for. They simply lack the funding to provide loans or grants to households at risk of homelessness. Still, it may be worth giving them a call (425-290-8499) since their case managers do routinely provide referrals to area organizations that may be able to provide more immediate aid.
Snohomish County Family Center
Catholic Community Services and Catholic Housing Services of Western Washington operate one of the better known rental assistance programs in Snohomish County. Their Snohomish County Family Center is located in nearby Everett, Washington.
This may be a better option for you since there is more of a focus on providing immediate rental assistance. You must be committed to self-sufficient living, though. This means that if you are provided with temporary assistance, your case manager must believe that it will be all you need to be able to remain in regular rental housing permanently.
Keep in mind that there may be reduced rent apartments available that might be a better option than your current rental unit. The organization manages Kateri Court, Mount Baker and Washington Grocery Building apartments in Bellingham. It manages La Casa de Santa Rosa in Sedro Woolley. Monte Cristo studio apartments are sometimes available in Everett. It administers La Casa de Padre Miguel, La Casa de San Jose, Villa San Isidro and Villa Santa Maria in Mount Vernon. To set up an appointment with a case manager, call the Snohomish County Family Center at 425-257-2111.
Snohomish County Human Services Department
The Snohomish County Human Services Department could be a potential source for rental help through the HEN rental assistance service. Applicants who have a notice from their landlord will generally receive priority treatment. Families with young children in the home also are more likely to gain approval.
You will need to be able to meet with a case manager at the 3000 Rockefeller Ave office in Everett. You may call for information at 425-388-3411.
Other Options
Housing Hope of Everett can help with affordable housing in Snohomish County. Call 425-347-6556.
St. Vincent de Paul offers limited rental assistance services in Snohomish County. Find out what appointments are available by calling 425-513-6052.
The United Way of Snohomish County can also connect you with one of the local charities that are organized to assist with basic needs. Many of these organizations can provide emergency cash to help avoid eviction. For more information about partner organizations that may be able to help, call United Way of Snohomish County by dialing 211.
Local loan companies may be able to provide you with rental assistance loans and other unsecured options, but the finance charges tend to be quite high. See what help you can get through one of these programs and you might save yourself the aggravation of trying to repay a high-interest rental assistance loan in Lynnwood.