The City of Boise Moves Forward With Emergency Rental Assistance Program for Residents Impacted by COVID-19

This week, Boise Mayor Lauren McLean and the Boise City Council unanimously approved the Emergency Rental Assistance Program to help residents who struggle to pay rent or utility bills due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The City of Boise received $11.5 million in grant funding from the U.S. Department of Treasury as part of the second COVID relief package.

Community members who rent their residence can apply for grants to cover their cost of rent, electricity, gas, water and sewage, trash bills, and additional energy costs such as fuel oil. Landlords are also able to apply for the program on behalf of their tenants.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on our community, especially our most vulnerable residents,” said Mayor Lauren McLean. “I am happy that we are able to provide some financial relief to our residents who need it most. And would like to extend my gratitude to the Boise City Ada County Housing Authority for their partnership in administering the program.”

“The COVID-19 pandemic is highlighting the inequities that our vulnerable residents have endured for many years. In 2019, the City of Boise took steps to address those issues by passing a rental application fee ordinance and by dedicating funding to prevent homelessness,” said Boise City Council Pro-Tem Lisa Sánchez. “This Emergency Rental Assistance Program will address some of the most pressing financial needs of our community members.”

"The Emergency Rental Assistance Program is a huge step forward in addressing immediate needs of our residents experiencing housing insecurity by allowing flexibility in how help can be accessed,” said Maureen Brewer, Housing and Community Development Senior Manager at the City of Boise. “This program speaks to the critical importance of partnership in serving our community.”

“Our organization is so pleased to provide local administration of these funds that are so critically needed in our community,” said Deanna Watson, Executive Director of the Boise City/Ada County Housing Authorities. “In this time of great pain and loss, here is a ray of hope that will certainly benefit renters but also landlords and our local economy as well.”

The Boise City Ada County Housing Authorities (BCACHA) will administer the grants. Residents who qualify, can find more information on the program by contacting BCACHA at 208-363-9710 or by visiting BCACHA.org.