HOUSING TRUST ALLOCATES $250,000 FOR RENTAL ASSISTANCE

In a special meeting, the Amherst Municipal Affordable Housing Trust approved a motion allocating up to $250,000 of the Trust’s funds to establish a rental assistance program for Amherst residents who have lost income due to the coronavirus pandemic.  The program aims to cover about half of the rent for households earning up to 80 percent of area mean income.  The proposed subsidies range from $650 per month for a one bedroom apartment to $1100 per month for a three bedroom apartment.  Eligible income levels are $47,850 for a one-person household to $68,300 for a four-person household.  

The Trust will now move to hire an administrator for the program.  They hope that the program will begin accepting applications in June so they can begin awarding money by summer.  A lottery may be necessary if applications exceed the available funds.  The subsidies will be paid directly to the landlords

At least 70 percent of the recipients are expected to  be families with children, but all Amherst renters who earn less than 80 percent of area mean income and are not in subsidized housing are eligible to apply, regardless of family size or immigration status.  Proofs of Amherst residency and income must be provided.  

In addition, the Trust will send a letter to Amherst landlords encouraging them to reduce the rents charged to tenants who have lost income.  Initially, the rental assistance program will run for three months and serve about 60 to 80 households. Hopefully additional money can be obtained from other sources to supplement the fund and extend the program to more households.