Maryam Khan

Last week, the CT Department of Housing announced that they launched the Eviction Prevention Fund, a new $12.5 million fund, to assist renters who are on the verge of being evicted from their homes due to owing past due rent. The program - run through UniteCT and the Rent Bank - will provide households with up to $5,000 to pay off past due rent with their current landlord.

How to Apply:

1. Tenants must call the UniteCT Call Center at 1-844-864-8328
   • Callers will then be screened for eligibility
2. Eligible applicants will receive direct assistance from a local UniteCT Resource Center on how to file a formal application
3. If a tenant requires but does not have legal representation, access to mediators at Quinnipiac University’s Center on Dispute Resolution will be provided

Over the past year, the Hartford City Council passed a resolution that helped bolster two programs that help promote homeownership in Hartford for seniors and for City employees utilizing $2.5 million in ARPA and state funding. While the applications have not yet been released by the City, below are specific eligibility requirements for both programs:

Homeownership Preservation Fund for Seniors

• Loans of up to $10,000 to Hartford homeowners over the age of 65 to finance exterior improvements to owner-occupied homes
• Applicants must have income up to 80% of area median income or around $24,000 for an individual or $36,000 for a household
• Loans can be forgiven after a period of continued homeownership

Down Payment Assistance for Municipal Employees

• Loan program to provide up to $10,000 in down-payment assistance for any municipal employee seeking to purchase a home in the City of Hartford
• Loans can be forgiven after a period of continuous owner occupancy