More Funds Issued for Emergency Rental Assistance Program
The City of Pittsburgh received $7 million additional dollars for the Emergency Rental Assistance Program to assist people impacted financially by the COVID-19 crisis.
Learn More
In February, the City of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County established the COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program in partnership with Action Housing and Dollar Energy after receiving federal funding from the Consolidated Appropriations Act. The County originally received $27 million and the City $8.9 million in U.S. Treasury grants. An additional $7 million in grants will assist households having trouble paying rents and utilities related to the pandemic.
About the program
Assistance can last up to 12 months plus an additional three months, if necessary, to ensure housing stability. The grant funding can be used for:
rent,
rental arrears,
utilities,
utility arrears, and
other housing expenses resulting from the pandemic for households meeting income criteria.
Who can apply?
Money is available for rent and utilities to renting households that:
Have at least one person who qualifies for unemployment, has lost income, or suffered financially due to COVID-19
Are at risk of experiencing homelessness if they don’t get help
Have a total income below 80% of the Area Median Income for Allegheny County
How to apply
To apply, go to covidrentrelief.alleghenycounty.us to complete an application and upload the required documents.
Individuals who don’t have WiFi or a computer or just need help filling out the application, can contact ACTION-Housing at 412-248-0021 to make an appointment to complete the application over the phone with a case manager. Drop-in centers with free WiFi and computers will also be open around the county. Some have scanners and staff to assist with technology.
For more information, view Frequently Asked Questions or contact Action Housing at 412-248-0021 or rentalassistance@actionhousing.org.