HONOLULU – The City’s Rent and Utility Relief Program (RURP) is hosting a registration event for new applicants as part of the transition of former participants to Housing Stabilization Services.
First-time applicants may apply on Friday, August 23, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Makiki District Park (Old Makiki Community Library), 1527 Keeaumoku St. Bldg 42, 2nd FL, Honolulu, HI 96822.
Tenants should bring:
- State identity card of the head of household.
- Signed social security cards for everyone over 18.
- Valid rental agreement.
- Proof of financial hardship since March 13, 2020.
- Proof of income for each household member.
- Unpaid rent or utility bills or eviction notice.
Appointments are required. Tenants may contact CNHA at (808) 596-8155 or [email protected] to schedule an appointment. Funds are limited and no application guarantees funding.
“The Rent and Utility Assistance Program, in collaboration with our remarkable partners Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi and the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, has been a lifeline for our community and those still struggling financially throughout the pandemic,” said Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “Their efforts have prevented thousands of evictions, saved family units, and ensured stable housing for many. Our Housing Stabilization Services will build on this important work and support families with services so they can be safely housed.”
“I am deeply grateful for the City’s rental and utility assistance program,” said 5th District Councilmember Calvin Say. “There continues to be a critical need for housing and utility services for our families. This program is critical to supporting our community’s recovery and rebuilding efforts following the pandemic.”
The RURP has pumped over $300 million into O’ahu’s economy and has been recognized by the U.S. Treasury Department as one of the most important rent and utility relief projects in the country.
Housing stabilization services
RURP providers Catholic Charities Hawaii and Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement will continue to provide long-term housing assistance to eligible tenants in the Rental and Utility Program through Housing Stabilization Services. This includes:
- Housing advice and case management
- Eviction defense and mediation for tenants and landlords
- Placement in vocational training and other social services
- Financial literacy training for household budgets and family finances
Interested parties may contact Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi at (808) 524-4673 or the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement at (808) 204-2722.
More options for tenants
While RURP financial assistance is winding down, renters on Oʻahu have other options to find safe housing or pay some household bills:
- Mediation is a free service that often helps tenants and landlords reach agreement on payment plans. Tenants can contact the Mediation Center of the Pacific at (808) 521-6767 weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or visit mediatehawaii.org.
- The Legal Aid Society of Hawaii can advise tenants of their rights. You can reach them at (808) 536-4302, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., or visit legalaidhawaii.org.
- The FCC’s Lifeline program can cover up to $111 per year for internet bills. To apply, visit lifelinesupport.org.
- For a comprehensive list of services, contact Aloha United Way by calling 2-1-1 or visiting auw.org.
Renters can also visit revitalizeoahu.org/renthelp to find additional assistance programs from nonprofit organizations.
—PAU—
