Nichols Highlights Opening of Rental Assistance Program Applications

CHICAGO – To ensure that all residents are able to keep a roof over their head, state Rep. Cyril Nichols, D-Chicago, is encouraging residents who are at risk of housing instability to apply for the Illinois Rental Payment Program (ILRPP), which can assist tenants with rental payments.                                                                                                                            

“With so many working people struggling to make ends meet, we must ensure that everyone is able to access basic necessities, such as housing, for themselves and their families,” said Nichols. “We cannot allow residents to be unable to access something as important as a home because they are financially struggling.”                    

The ILRPP assists those who are at risk of homelessness or housing instability with their rental payments. ILRPP can provide up to $25,000 to cover unpaid rent balances for up to 18 months of rent. Those who have already received rental assistance in the past are eligible for ILRPP as long as they have not received more than 18 months’ worth of rent in total combined assistance. Applications are currently open and will be available until Jan. 9, 2022. For more information or to apply, please visit illinoishousinghelp.org/.                                                                                                                  

“Especially after the difficulties that we have all had to face over the past year and a half, it is more important than ever that we are stepping up and taking care of those who need our help the most,” said Nichols. “As we continue to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and the hardship it has caused so many in our community, I will continue to work to ensure that no one is left without the support they need to get through these difficult times.”