Avelar Encourages Eligible Residents to Apply for the Rental Assistance Program

BOLINGBROOK, Ill. – As part of the state’s efforts to reduce evictions, state Rep. Dagmara “Dee” Avelar, D-Bolingbrook, wants residents in need of emergency assistance to apply for the Illinois Rental Payment Program (ILRPP) to ensure everyone has a roof over their head.

“The reality is that many families and seniors do not know if their paycheck will stretch far enough to pay for rent, utilities, or food,” Avelar said. “The pandemic continues to impact the state’s employment, people’s health, and other factors beyond our control. Affordable housing is a goal we are striving for, so to prevent unforeseen evictions we welcome programs like ILRPP to keep families together this holiday season.”

The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) will reopen the application portal on December 6 through 11:59p.m. on January 9, 2022 at illinoishousinghelp.org. Those expected to apply are people who have missed rent payments from June 2020 to April 2022 and those who are currently struggling to make payments due to a loss of income during the COVID-19 pandemic. Approved applicants are eligible to receive a one-time grant up to $25,000. Proof of citizenship is not required.

Avelar co-sponsored the COVID-19 Federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program Act. The act allowed for approximately $564 million in federal emergency funds to be awarded to Illinois tenants to landlords for relief. The act temporarily paused evictions, foreclosures, and repossessions in order to promote the safety and welfare of those suffering from financial hardships during the pandemic.

“We are currently fighting for affordable housing and to combat our homelessness crisis. We want people to have a roof over their heads. It is often difficult for people to reach out for help, but we want our community to know that there is help available,” Avelar said. “It is our duty to help people take full advantage of these programs.”