Aurora launches rental assistance program for residents

Aurora has launched a $500,000 program to provide financial assistance to residents with overdue rent payments amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The Aurora Emergency Rental Assistance Program will pay landlords directly on behalf of the participant for up to two months of past-due rent, according to a news release from the city. The funds paid will be based on the rent amount outlined in a signed lease, with maximum amounts established by the federal government.

Eligible residents must have a: current signed lease agreement within the city; loss or reduction of income due to the COVID-19 crisis; total household gross annual income of 80% or less of the area median income; financial ability to pay future rent without assistance; and documentation that rent is overdue. Applications must be completed online or delivered to the Aurora City Hall by 5 p.m. Aug. 31.

The program is supported by a Community Development Block Grant, funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

"This is another initiative to help our community during these challenging times," Mayor Richard Irvin said in a statement. "We have created financial assistance programs for businesses, nonprofits and now for individuals and families who need help with rent."

For information, visit www.aurora-il.org/rentalassistance, call (630) 256-3320 or email CDBGinfo@aurora-il.org.