Combatting the Eviction Wave: Colorado Launches Innovative Rental Assistance Program

Colorado has launched an ambitious and innovative rental assistance program to tackle the mounting eviction crisis that has gripped the state.

The Temporary Rental Assistance Grant program, backed by $30 million approved by the Colorado Legislature, aims to help struggling individuals and families stay in their homes despite record-high eviction filings witnessed throughout the state.

The first round of pre-applications for the program is already underway, giving Coloradans the chance to secure vital rental assistance funds.

The pre-application period will stay open until 5 p.m. Tuesday, after which another application opportunity will be available every month on the fifteenth day - a day that often marks rent-related notices from landlords.

Governed by House Bill 1001, the $30 million must be swiftly disbursed to eligible Coloradans before June 30. State leaders aspire to review and approve rental assistance for approximately 3,700 households before the program concludes.

This initiative seeks to support individuals experiencing financial hardship through no fault of their own, providing them with stability during these challenging times.

To be eligible for the Temporary Rental Assistance Grant, applicants must earn no more than 80% of their local median income and face the threat of eviction or displacement.

Furthermore, they must intend to utilize the funds to remain in their primary residence, possess a notice of late rent from their landlord, not have received rental assistance in the past year, and report other risk factors associated with eviction or displacement.

Recognizing the overwhelming demand for assistance and aiming to streamline the application process, the Department of Local Affairs has introduced a pre-application system rather than a comprehensive application.

Following a random selection process, chosen pre-applicants will be required to complete a lengthier application.

Five nonprofit organizations, including the Community Economic Defense Project and La Puente Home, will then review these applications and disburse funds within seven to 14 days upon approval.

While this rental assistance program is an essential step toward addressing the eviction crisis, it is crucial to understand the scale of the problem. According to 2023 U.S. Census Bureau data, over 63,000 Colorado households were behind on rent as of October.

Nevertheless, organizations like the Colorado Economic Defense Project have been working tirelessly to provide rental assistance, legal aid, and guidance on navigating evictions.

With the advent of this grant program, they anticipate a surge in applications and a significant impact on stabilizing renters across the state.

The $30 million allocated to the Temporary Rental Assistance Grant represents a substantial investment in supporting renters. However, it is clear that additional resources will be needed to address the vast magnitude of this crisis.

Colorado's leaders are committed to confronting these challenges head-on, ensuring that individuals and families have access to the stability and relief they desperately need to remain in their homes.