Kaua‘i renters encouraged to apply for rent relief program

Kaua‘i County officials are encouraging residents to apply for the State of Hawai‘i Rent Relief and Housing Assistance Program (RRHAP) which will provide financial assistance for renters at risk of eviction for non-payment of rent due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The program is funded by the Federal CARES Act and will provide eligible renters at risk of eviction with assistance in making monthly rent as well as financial counseling. The program is administered by non-profit partners Catholic Charities Hawai‘i and Aloha United Way.

“We are grateful for the support and collaboration of our state and federal partners for providing this much-needed program to the County of Kaua‘i,” said Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami. “We also thank Catholic Charities and Aloha United Way for their role in helping our communities navigate this program which will bring much-needed relief to both renters and landlords affected by the ongoing challenges of this pandemic.”

Applications are currently being accepted for housing payments that are due between Aug. 1, 2020, and Dec. 28, 2020. The program specifies that housing assistance payments can be made in lump sum amounts and will be made directly to landlords. The program’s monthly rent payments are up to $1,500 per household for residents in the County of Kaua‘i. Rent payments will not exceed the actual rent owed.

How to Apply:
To apply for the State of Hawai‘i Rent Relief and Housing Assistance Program, go to www.hihousinghelp.com or contact either Catholic Charities Hawai‘i or Aloha United Way. Both partners will assist the public through the process and ensure that applicants meet all eligibility requirements for program assistance. Catholic Charities Hawai‘i can be reached via www.catholiccharitieshawaii.org or by phone at 808-521-HELP (4357) or 808-241-4673. Aloha United Way can be reached via www.auw.org or by phone at 2-1-1.

Eligibility:
Full-time Hawai‘i residents with proof of valid and current tenancy for their primary residence must show a loss of income due to the COVID-19 pandemic and have a gross household income that does not exceed 100% of the HUD Area Median Income for 2020. You can apply for the Rent Relief and Housing Assistance Program if you:

-Are a full-time Hawai‘i resident.
-Have proof of valid and current tenancy for primary residence in the state of Hawai‘i.
Are 18 years of age or older.
-Can demonstrate a loss of income directly resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.
-Can demonstrate that your current household income does not exceed 100% Area Median Income.