Stanislaus County and the City of Modesto are pleased to announce that soon funding will be made available through an Emergency Rental Assistance program supported by the U.S. Department of the Treasury. The Emergency Rental Assistance program makes available $25 billion to assist households unable to pay rent and utilities due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The funds are provided directly to States, U.S. Territories, local governments, and Indian tribes. Government agencies must use these funds to provide assistance to eligible households through rental assistance programs.

Stanislaus County and the City of Modesto will be receiving a combined amount of roughly $16,400,000 for distribution to those who are eligible and can demonstrate a need. The Emergency Rental Assistance program will be facilitated locally through a collaboration between the City and County to distribute funds to residents in households throughout Stanislaus County.

City Manager Joe Lopez stated, “Too many in our community are scared about the prospect of becoming unsheltered as a result of the pandemic, and we look forward to putting this new funding source directly into the hands of those in need as soon as possible.”

“Countless numbers of Stanislaus residents are hurting right now and fear the unknown,” added Stanislaus County Supervisor Terry Withrow. “The County has been and continues to be committed to doing everything we can to support individuals who are struggling as a result of COVID-19. This program will be a critical tool in our efforts toward helping people get back on their feet.”

A minimum of 90 percent of awarded funds must be used for direct financial assistance, including rent, utilities and home energy costs, as well as other expenses related to housing. Remaining funds are available for housing stability services, including case management and other services intended to keep households stably housed, and administrative costs.

Many of the specifics regarding a timeline of funding availability is unknown at this time. In the next few weeks, the federal government is expected to release detailed guidelines on the use of these funds, at which time information will be released to the community regarding application instructions and eligibility details.

For program information currently available, please see the following link: https://home.treasury.gov/policy-issues/cares/emergency-rental-assistance-program