The Grand Rapids Area Coalition to End Homelessness is currently taking applications from Kent County residents who need help paying for rent or utilities. $39 million will be given out to those in need as part of COVID Emergency Rental Assistance (CERA).

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If you've been having trouble making ends meet during the pandemic, you can apply for assistance here: CERA Assistance. This assistance can be direct payments to landlords, money for utilities, and even payments to maintain internet access.

For those who would like in-person help or need help completing your application, please contact you can call 877-ERA-KENT.

Walk-in Assistance is also available at:

  • The Salvation Army, 1215 Fulton St E, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 – Monday through Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm
  • Kent County Community Action, 121 Franklin St SE Ste 110, Grand Rapids, MI 49507 – Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM
  • Kent County Community Action, 82 Ionia Avenue NW, Suite 390, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 – Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5 PM
  • Hispanic Center of West Michigan (Spanish speaking assistance available), 1204 Grandville Ave SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503 – Monday through Friday, 9am to 12 PM and 1:30 PM to 5 PM

CERA assistance is available for households that have incomes less than 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI), experienced financial hardship due directly or indirectly to the coronavirus outbreak, and are behind on rent. 80% of the Area Median Income for a household of four in Kent County is $64,150. For other income and household information, you can visit the State Of Michigan CERA website.

Currently, caseworkers may take up to 30 days to process applications and, once approved, 14 days for landlords to receive payments.

READ ON: Here's how to apply for rent relief

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