Santa Barbara County Community Services, United Way make final push for rental assistance program
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – The County Community Services Department and United way are pushing for Santa Barbara County residents to apply for the Emergency Rental & Utility Assistance Program.
This program is for those who are struggling to pay for rent and utilities due to COVID-19.
The deadline is approaching, and both agencies hope those who need to apply, to do so.
The County Community Services said in order to be eligible, you must meet the following requirements:
- All households with annual incomes at or below 80% of the area median income
- Are living in the County of Santa Barbara
- Tenants that have experienced a loss of income due to or during the COVID-19 pandemic and experiencing a risk of homelessness or housing instability
This assistance helped people in the community like Tania Martinez. Martinez is a single mom.
She lost her job due to COVID-19.
“It was very difficult for me because I don’t have family here," said Martinez.
Martinez said she was behind her rent and utilities for three months.
An eviction notice was posted on her front door.
“It was very scary, mhm," said Martinez. Yeah, I don’t wish that situation on anyone.”
She said if it wasn't for the assistance program, she and her daughter wouldn't have a place to live.
“I don’t know how to thank, I mean, there are not enough words to thank the community and the help you receive from this program,” said Martinez.
The county said tenants may apply for rent and utility debts dating back to March 2020.
For application status, you are asked to call United Way at 805-965-8591.
The deadline is Thursday at 11:59 p.m.
