• One-time Rent Subsidy available for low-income County Residents to Apply
• Dutchess County Partners with Catholic Charities Community Services of Dutchess County to Provide Support During Application Process for Those in Need

The biggest cost facing most residents at this stage in the global pandemic is rent. New Yorkers already pay a nationally high rent rate, but job losses and rising food prices have added to the already heavy burden. Fortunately, Dutchess County knows the needs of its people and how to address them.

RENT RELIEF PROGRAM

Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro has announced a one-time rent subsidy is available for low-income County residents who were previously “rent-burdened” prior to March 1, 2020 and have experienced an additional decrease in income as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic through New York State’s COVID Rent Relief Navigator.

The New York State Department of Homes and Community Renewal has made $100 million available to help low-income households experiencing an increased rent burden due to loss of income during the COVID-19 crisis.

ADDITIONAL HELP WITH APPLICATIONS

Dutchess County and the City of Poughkeepsie have also partnered with two local agencies, Hudson River Housing and Catholic Charities Community Services of Dutchess County, to provide support during the application process to vulnerable households including those with extremely low income, limited English proficiency, limited tech access, or those at most risk for homelessness.

Services can be accessed directly by calling 845 451 4251.

WHEN CAN YOU APPLY?

ACT NOW because applications will be accepted via an electronic portal for a two-week period only, beginning July 16th. 

GO TO https://hcr.ny.gov/RRP and scroll down to the APPLICATION and fill it out.

To qualify you must meet all of the following:

• Be a renter with a primary residence in New York;
• Lost income due to COVID-19 crisis during the period April 1, 2020 to July 31, 2020;
• Household does not currently receive a housing subsidy that covers housing costs that exceed 30 percent of their income;
• Before March 1, 2020 and at the time of application, household income must be below 80 percent area median income; families with extremely low income will be prioritized; and
• Before March 1, 2020 and at the time of application, household must be “rent burdened,” or pay more than 30 percent of their gross monthly income for rent.

 Households with at least one household member with U.S. Citizenship or eligible immigration status qualify for the subsidy. 

Julie West, the executive director of Catholic Charities Community Services of Dutchess County said,
“We have continued to provide services throughout the Covid-19 pandemic without interruption. Not only have services been maintained, they have been enhanced and expanded. Our mandate to assist extremely low-income households, those with limited English proficiency, those with limited technology skills and access, and those most at risk of homelessness is totally in keeping with our mission. It will ensure help truly gets to those who need it most.”