The Eviction Rent Assistance Program (ERAP), as administered by the Community Action Council of Lewis Mason and Thurston Counties (CAC), has expanded to offer assistance to renters from broader income levels and for a longer amount of time. The program can now provide rent assistance for up to six months of unpaid or partially unpaid rent and clients can access the program more than once. You may also be eligible for other programs for homeowners and those having trouble paying their utilities.

Eligible applicants must be at or below 80% Area Median Income, based on the last 60 days. This was previously set at or below 50% Area Median Income. Additional eligibility requirements include the applicant must have at least one month rent unpaid or partially paid since March and be experiencing at least one risk factor from a list developed by Washington State Department of Commerce. The program can cover up to six months of unpaid or partially unpaid rent, which has changed from the previous three-month limit. Clients can also now access the program more than once.

Request an appointment with the Community Action Council online or by phone. CAC contact information is at www.erap-help.com/CACLMT, or (360) 348-1100, select 8 for Housing and then 7 for the ERAP.

Applicants between ages 18-24 must apply with Community Youth Services: communityyouthservices.org (360) 280-8114, or email rentsupport@communityyouthservices.org.

For more information about the Thurston County Office of Housing and Homeless Prevention, visit: www.co.thurston.wa.us/health/sscp.