Eviction prevention and rent relief resources available in Richmond region

A recent federal court decision potentially overturning the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s nationwide eviction moratorium has created uncertainty for individuals and families protected by the CDC rule, and HOME of Virginia is working to ensure that local residents in need are aware of resources available to them.

Although the federal government has filed an appeal to the court’s decision, the ensuing confusion could add anxiety to those already struggling to stay in their homes, HOME officials said.

Among resources that can help those at risk of eviction or who need help paying rent:
• Virginia Rent Relief Program – a program designed to support and ensure housing stability statewide during the coronavirus pandemic. Learn more at https://www.dhcd.virginia.gov/rmrp.

• Chesterfield Emergency Rent and Utility Assistance – a program that provides financial assistance to Chesterfield County renters who have experienced financial difficulty due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. The program can be contacted at 644-2401 or at http://actsrva.org/chesterfield-cera-application/.

• Eviction Prevention and Diversion Program – a program for city of Richmond residents, who may complete the online application at http://www.rvaevictions.org or call the Eviction Helpline at 1-833-663-8428, press 4, and leave a message.

“We are concerned that the abrupt end to the moratorium will overwhelm the systems we are building to manage the tremendous need of Individuals and families in Central Virginia for eviction prevention programs and rental assistance,” said Heather Crislip, president and CEO of HOME of Virginia. “The Housing Resource Line, HOME of Virginia, and ACTS can help provide connections to these programs. Although those supports are important, our community doesn’t currently have enough resources to support everyone who lacks housing stability or is experiencing homelessness. There are a number of underlying factors, including the lack of deeply affordable housing, that we must address as a region.”

For assistance navigating legal and financial resources, amongst other housing resources, contact the Housing Resource Line at (804) 422-5061 or fill out an online intake form to receive a call in reply to discuss assistance: https://pharva.com/housing-hotline-form/.

Anyone experiencing homelessness now or who is within three days of losing indoor accommodations should contact the Homeless Connection Line at (804) 972-0813. The Housing Resource Line and Homeless Connection Line are staffed by professionals who can connect callers to the most appropriate resources for their needs.