The Somerset County Homelessness Trust Fund Rental Assistance Program will provide up to 15 months of rental assistance and case management that is intended to help clients become aware of and access resources to help increase their chances of maintaining permanent housing within Somerset County. 

The program will provide a monthly subsidy to pay the difference between household rent and 30 percent of the client’s income.  The maximum subsidy that can be provided to a household is $300 per month.

“This program is a tremendous benefit to working families who are struggling with their housing costs,” said Freeholder Deputy Director Peter S. Palmer, human services liaison.

An applicant must be able to demonstrate that he or she will be able to afford the housing without rental assistance within 15 months.  In order to qualify, all adult members of the household must be working at least 30 hours per week, have a formal lease and be within the following income limits:

1 Person - $50,800                 2 People - $58,000

3 People - $65,300                  4 People - $72,500

5 People – $78,300                 6 People - $84,100

 

In addition, program participants:

·         must complete a monthly household budget;

·         must maintain monthly contact with the Program Case Manager; and

·         must be willing to accept case management services that include financial management, employment, and/or any other services that are deemed necessary for one to maintain permanent housing.

Applicants who meet the criteria will be served on a first-come, first-served basis after being screened by the Somerset County Community Development Office.  For more information, call the office at (908) 541-5756.