Ebensburg

Pennsylvania

Documents

Cambria County Announces Emergency Rental Assistance Program

View original document →

Overview of the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)

Cambria County, in partnership with the State of Pennsylvania, has launched the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). This county-directed initiative aims to provide rental assistance and housing stability services to individuals and families at risk of homelessness due to the financial impact of COVID-19.

The program offers assistance with:

  • Rent payments, including any arrearages (past-due amounts).
  • Utility assistance, including any arrearages.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the program, a household must meet specific criteria regarding their rental obligations and financial hardship.

Household Definition:

  • A household of one or more individuals obligated to pay rent on a residential dwelling.

Financial Hardship Criteria: At least one individual within the household must meet one of the following conditions:

  • Unemployment: Qualified for unemployment benefits.
  • Income Reduction: Experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or faced other financial hardship directly or indirectly due to COVID-19 (applicant must attest to this in writing).

Risk of Homelessness: At least one individual within the household must demonstrate a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability. Evidence may include:

  • A past-due utility or rent notice, or an eviction notice.
  • Unsafe or unhealthy living conditions.
  • Any other evidence of such risk.

How to Apply

Interested applicants can apply through the following methods:

  • Online: Via the Pennsylvania DHS COMPASS System at https://www. compass. state. pa. us.
  • In Person: By contacting the Cambria County Behavioral Health/Intellectual Disabilities/Early Intervention Program at 110 Franklin Street, Suite 300, Johnstown, PA 15901.
  • Phone: By dialing (814) 535-8531.

Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm.

Program Details and Contact Information

  • Duration: Rent can be paid to landlords through the program for up to 12 months.
  • Key Officials: The program is coordinated by BH/ID/EI Administrator Tracy Selak and supported by Cambria County Commissioners Tom Chernisky, B. J. Smith, and Scott Hunt.
  • Inquiries: Questions regarding the press release or program can be directed to Tracy Selak at (814) 535-8531.
← Back to Documents