Homelessness Prevention Program and COVID-19 Emergency Response
The cost of living in the greater Boston area ranks among the highest in the country. Many low and moderate income Arlington families struggle with rising housing costs and stagnant wages. A single crisis, such as hospitalization or temporary job loss, can put many in danger of losing their homes. In response to this escalating problem, HCA created the Homelessness Prevention Program in 2001 to provide financial support to Arlington residents facing a housing crisis. Grants up to $1500 help residents stabilize their situation and maintain their housing. The program also helps low-income Arlington residents with moving fees, facilitating their transition to affordable, stable housing. The Homelessness Prevention Program is supported by the generous donations of Arlington residents.
With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, Arlington residents, along with the rest of the world, face unprecedented economic, social, educational and health challenges. In response to this crisis, HCA created the Emergency Response initiative as a temporary component of the Homelessness Prevention Program to offer financial support to stabilize housing in jeopardy as a result of COVID-19’s impact. The Emergency Response initiative is supported by the generous donations of Arlington residents as well as CDBG funds.
Applications Due by the 15th of each month.
Homelessness Prevention Program Eligibility Requirements
Eligible Costs: Rental arrears, moving expenses or security deposit
Income Limits: Must be at or below HUD 60% Area Median Income
Family Size Maximum Income Family Size Maximum Income
1 $53,750 5 $82,900
2 $61,450 6 $89,050
3 $69,100 7 $95,150
4 $76,750 8 $101,350
Funding Limits: There must be a reasonable assurance that the grant will stabilize a family’s housing for at least six months. The maximum grant per family is $1,500. A household may receive a grant no more than twice and the second grant will only be made two years or more after the first.
COVID-19 Emergency Response Eligibility Requirements
Eligible Costs: Up to two months of rent or rental arrears payments for households experiencing loss of income or other instability due to COVID-19
Income Limits: Must be at or below HUD 80% Area Median Income
Family Size Maximum Income Family Size Maximum Income
1 $67,400 5 $103,950
2 $77,000 6 $111,650
3 $86,650 7 $119,350
4 $96,250 8 $127,505
Funding Limits: Up to two months of rental assistance based on need. Rent maximums based on the FY 2020 FMR for the unit size.
Homelessness Prevention Program and Emergency Response Administration and Funding Priorities
Administration: The Homelessness Prevention Program and Emergency Response initiative are administered by the non-profit Housing Corporation of Arlington. A three person Review Committee, appointed by the Housing Corporation of Arlington, along with HCA staff, makes funding decisions based on the eligibility requirements as well as availability of funds. The Review Committee is made up of a representative of the Housing Corporation of Arlington, a representative of the Town’s Human Services Department, and a third member appointed from the community. Applications are due by the 15th on each month.
Funding Priorities: In the event that funds are insufficient to help all eligible applicants, priority will be given to victims of family violence, families with young children and the disabled. All applicants must have housing in Arlington.
Application can be submitted here: Homeless Prevention Program Application
After receiving your application one of HCA’s Social Workers will follow up with you to discuss your eligibility and request necessary documentation.
For more information, please contact:
Renea Duran, Social Worker
rduran@housingcorparlington.org
(857) 408-5047