Emergency Rental Assistance in Maryland and PG County
(March 7, 2022) Even as the nation’s economy continues to recover from the impact of COVID-19, rising inflation rates and ongoing effects, many families are also struggling with rising DC Energy Assistance costs, making utility support programs even more critical. For those in the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population—the growing number of individuals and families who are working but are unable to afford basic necessities—the circumstances of the past two years have made making ends meet even harder, especially as rent and housing prices continue to rise.
For many Maryland residents, including those in PG County, the need for emergency rental assistance is greater than ever before. Although United Way of the National Capital Area does not directly offer rental assistance programs, we provide access to resources that do. Below, we break down how to get rental assistance in Maryland and PG County, as well as other helpful resources for community members in need. If you’re looking for rental assistance in Washington, DC, please click here. When none are ignored, all will thrive.
How To Get Rental Assistance in Maryland
There are many organizations and programs throughout Maryland, including PG County, offering emergency rental assistance for community members who qualify. Here are three great places to start when looking for rental assistance:
2-1-1: Connecting You to Rental Assistance in PG County and Maryland
2-1-1 is a free, confidential referral and information helpline number that connects callers to essential health and human services and resources addressing homelessness 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Nationally, 2-1-1 is to social services what 9-1-1 is to emergency services.
United Way of the National Capital Area refers thousands of callers in search of social services to 2-1-1 call centers in Maryland, including Prince George’s County, as well as Washington, DC and Virginia. 2-1-1 is available in multiple languages and individuals can call the number to gain access to food, shelters, utilities, rental assistance, Salvation Army, health care, counseling and much more in their local community. To learn more about 2-1-1, click here .
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development for PG County
Maryland residents whose ability to pay rent has been affected by COVID-19 may be eligible for assistance with current or past-due rent payments through Maryland’s Department of Housing and Community Development Emergency Rental Assistance Program.
The department is administering federal emergency rental funding and funds directly to local jurisdictions through the Maryland Eviction Partnership program and to property management on behalf of tenants facing an eviction order residing in affordable rental properties that received federal or state financing through the Assisted Housing Relief Program.
The Assisted Housing Relief Program is available to tenants residing in multifamily rental communities that have received state funds or federal resources from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development. To be eligible, a tenant must reside in one of the communities listed here. For more information on eligibility and how to apply for assistance through this program, click here.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Rental Assistance for PG County
For Maryland residents who can no longer afford rent where they currently reside and are looking for a new apartment, they can search for apartments using a tool provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development here.
Low-income families, the elderly and persons with disabilities in Maryland can also apply for a spot in public housing for an affordable apartment by contacting a public housing agency here. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development also recommends using a Housing Choice Voucher to pay for all or part of rent, if you are eligible. Those in need can apply for a voucher here.
To find more resources on rental assistance across the National Capital Area, including PG County, we encourage you to visit unitedwaynca.org/pcc for information on our annual Project Community Connect (PCC), which provides information to the public on important topics like rental assistance, meeting basic needs, and more. You can find recorded videos of PCC’s 2021 workshops on YouTube here.
Rental Assistance Programs in Prince George’s County
Community Organizations Offering Support in PG County
Organizations like Bethel House A.M.E. and the Salvation Army provide rental assistance in PG County to help residents avoid eviction.
Eligibility Requirements and Application Tips
To qualify for rental assistance in PG County, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements, such as providing proof of income or attending financial literacy workshops.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rental Assistance in PG County
What rental assistance programs are available in PG County?
- Prince George’s County offers several rental assistance programs, including those administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, the Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCVP), and organizations like United Communities Against Poverty and Bethel House A.M.E. These programs aim to provide support for residents facing eviction or housing instability.
- Rental assistance in PG County is available through various programs designed to help residents with housing needs.
How do I qualify for emergency rental assistance in PG County?
- To qualify, applicants typically need to meet eligibility criteria such as proof of income, demonstrating financial hardship, and providing documentation like lease agreements or eviction notices. Programs like the Maryland Emergency Rental Assistance Program also require applicants to reside in eligible areas within PG County.
- For those in need of emergency rental assistance in PG County, meeting the program’s eligibility requirements is essential.
Where can I apply for emergency rental assistance in Maryland and PG County?
- Applications can be submitted through local organizations like Community Ministries, Mission of Love Charities, and the Prince George’s County Department of Social Services. Some programs, like the Housing Choice Voucher Program, require contacting the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
- For rental assistance in PG County and Maryland, residents can apply through various organizations and housing authorities.
What documents are needed to apply for rental assistance in PG County?
- Commonly required documents include a government-issued ID, proof of income, lease agreements, utility bills, and eviction notices. Each program may have specific requirements, so it’s important to check with the organization administering the assistance.
- Applicants seeking rental assistance in PG County should prepare the necessary documents to ensure a smooth application process.
How can I get money to pay rent fast in PG County?
- If you’re in urgent need of rent money in Prince George’s County, consider the following steps:
- Seek Emergency Rental Assistance Programs: Organizations like the Salvation Army, United Communities Against Poverty, and Bethel House A.M.E. in PG County offer financial support for rent.
- Gig Economy Jobs: Temporary income can be earned quickly through platforms like DoorDash, Uber, or TaskRabbit.
- Community Resources: Visit local food banks or financial aid centers, such as those supported by the Prince George’s County Department of Social Services, to reduce other expenses and allocate funds toward rent.
- Sell Unused Items: Consider selling items through platforms like Facebook Marketplace or eBay for quick cash.
