Ahead of the state’s moratorium on evictions ending July 31, Indianapolis sets aside $15 million from federal CARES Act funds for a more long-term rental assistance program.
Lilly Endowment Inc. will now provide $10 million in support.
City-County Council President, Vop Osili, says the funds will be crucial support for financially burdened households.
“Even families who believed themselves to be financially secure before COVID-19 have felt that security stripped away by the economic upheaval that say nothing of the burden that has fallen upon those who are already vulnerable,” Osili said.
Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said the program will be one of the largest rental assistance efforts in the country and able to provide up to 90 days of rental assistance.
Local community centers and nonprofits have also partnered to connect households with the funding.
Urban League President and CEO Tony Mason says the partnerships are an important part of the program’s efforts.
“This coalition envisions ultimately multiple phases of assistance supported by multiple funding streams that will provide the tools and resources to stabilize families and to allow households to regain economic mobility and thrive in future years,” Mason said.
The application process opens July 13.
The Indianapolis Public Libraries are working to provide computers and internet connection for those applying.
“This is not the end of our relief efforts as a city. As long as the pandemic affects the lives of Indianapolis families, the city of Indianapolis and our partners will do everything we can to relieve and repair the harm done,” Hogsett said.
