Aurora launches $500,000 rental assistance program

The City of Aurora recently launched a $500,000 emergency rental assistance program to support Aurora residents who have overdue rent payments because of financial strain caused by COVID-19.

If approved, residents can receive funds paid directly to landlords for up to two months of past-due rent based on the rent amount outlined in a signed lease, with maximum amounts established by the federal government.

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

To be eligible for the Aurora Emergency Rental Assistance Program, residents must have:

• A current signed lease agreement for a rental house or apartment licensed with the City of Aurora.

• A loss or reduction of income due to COVID-19 and need for assistance.

• A total household gross annual income less than or equal to 80% of the Area Median Income (see chart on website)

• Financial ability to pay future rent without assistance.

• Documentation that past due rent is owed.

• A completed application with all required documents on file by the deadline

An application for rental assistance can be completed online at www.aurora-il.org/rentalassistance or obtained at Aurora City Hall, 44 E. Downer Place, on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Whether completing online, delivering in person or mailing to Aurora City Hall, all applications must be received by 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 31.

The Aurora Emergency Rental Assistance Program is supported by Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

For more details on the program, visit www.aurora-il.org/rentalassistance, call 630-256-3320 or email CDBGinfo@aurora-il.org.