Collins Encourages Families to Apply for Emergency Rental Assistance

CHICAGO – To help Illinois families access additional financial support, state Rep. Lakesia Collins, D-Chicago, is encouraging households unable to pay rent to apply for the 2021 Illinois Rental Payment Program as the second application period for tenants opens.

“Housing affordability and access has long been an issue, but the pandemic has put additional strain on families’ ability to pay for their housing month-to-month,” said Collins, “We must support those families who have been unable to pay rent due to the COVID-19 pandemic.”

The Illinois Rental Payment program is an emergency rental assistance program designed to support households in Illinois that are unable to pay rent due to the pandemic.  Tenants can apply directly for assistance starting on Monday, June 28.  The application period for tenants will end on Sunday, July 18 at 11:59 p.m. Applicants are eligible for up to 15 months of assistance with a maximum grant amount of $25,000.

“If you or someone you know is at risk for housing instability or homelessness due to the pandemic, I urge you to apply for emergency rental assistance,” Collins said.  “I will continue to advocate for affordable housing and programs to support hardworking households here in Chicago and across Illinois.”

The emergency rental assistance is provided by the Federal government and is free to both the tenant and housing provider. To find out more or to apply for this program, visit ilrpp.ihda.org. Those interested in applying can ask additional questions by calling 866-454-3571 or emailing Questions.ILRPP@ihda.org. The call center will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.