HONOLULU (Eagle News) – Governor David Ige announced on Tuesday, September 8, the launch of the state’s Rent Relief and Housing Assistance Program (RRHAP).
“The COVID-19 pandemic and its financial impacts have affected all across the state and in our communities. This program provides essential support directly to help those most at-risk and in need,” said Ige.
The program will provide assistance for renters who have experienced a reduction in income because of unemployment or a reduction in work hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic and are at risk of eviction.
Funded by federal appropriations under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, the RRHAP will provide at-risk renters with assistance in making monthly rent as well as financial counseling.
“Working with the Legislature, we directed $50 million out of the $100 million in federal CARES Act funds appropriated to the first phase of this vital program,” said the governor.
Applications are currently being accepted for housing payments due between August 1, 2020 and December 28, 2020. The program will be administered by non-profit partners such as Aloha United Way.
“Aloha United Way is prepared and equipped to act as a conduit for the RRHAP during these trying times, said John Fink, president and chief executive officer of Aloha United Way. “Our goal is to ensure that qualified applicants receive assistance in a timely manner to help keep as many Hawaii residents housed as possible.”
Full-time Hawaii residents with proof of valid and current tenancy for their primary residence housing unit in Hawaii must show a loss of income due to the pandemic and have a gross household income that does not exceed 100% of the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Area Median Income for 2020. Anyone can apply for the RRHAP, provided that the following requirements are met:
- Full-time Hawaii resident.
- 18 years of age or older.
- Has proof of valid and current tenancy for primary residence in the state.
- Can demonstrate a loss of income directly resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Can demonstrate that the current household income does not exceed 100% Area Median Income.
Monthly payments will be $2,000 per household for Oahu residents or $1,500 per household for residents in Kauai, Maui, and Big Island. The payments will also be made directly to the landlord.
More information plus additional questions are available at www.hihousinghelp.com.
(With reports from EBC Hawaii Bureau, Eagle News Service)