AUSTIN, Texas — Applications are open for $8 million in rental assistance and eviction support through the City of Austin Housing Department's new " I Belong in Austin" program.
The program will be administered by El Buen Samaritano and is meant to help provide financial assistance with rent, moving and storage/relocation costs for people at risk of eviction. Austin residents are encouraged to review eligibility and apply for the assistance at www.AustinTexas.gov/rent.
"This work is a vital part of our displacement prevention strategy to help families stay in their homes," said Rosie Truelove, director of the City's Housing Department. "Partnering with El Buen for I Belong in Austin will help us provide relief and housing assistance to vulnerable households throughout Austin."
The City said El Buen Samaritano has been working with the City, Texas RioGrande Legal Aid (TRLA) and Volunteer Legal Services of Central Texas (VLS) to provide eviction prevention support, emergency rental dollars and tenant relocation services to communities in their preferred language.
"IBIA is literally saving lives by ensuring safe spaces for children, elderly and adults. The dignity of being housed brings hope, health, and happiness to many that are experiencing unimaginable situations," said Dr. Rosamaria Murillo, CEO of El Buen Samaritano. "We are honored to be a path to peace, health, and wellbeing for thousands of individuals at such a critical moment in their lives when they are a step away from being rendered unhoused."
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