Quick Answer
What Was the Gilbert Emergency Rental Assistance Program?
The Gilbert Emergency Rental Assistance Program was a temporary COVID-19 relief initiative that provided rent and utility assistance to eligible Gilbert households experiencing financial hardship. The program distributed federal funding through local nonprofit partners and has since closed, but Arizona residents may still qualify for other housing and utility assistance programs.
Gilbert Emergency Rental Assistance Program Overview
The Town of Gilbert received approximately $7.7 million in federal Emergency Rental Assistance funding through the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021. The funds were intended to help households affected by the COVID-19 pandemic pay rent, utilities, and certain housing expenses while reducing the risk of eviction and homelessness.
The town partnered with local nonprofit organizations to administer the program. Most of the funding was distributed through AZCEND, while additional resources were provided through Save the Family. The program served Gilbert residents experiencing reduced income, unemployment, or other pandemic-related hardships.
Although the Gilbert Emergency Rental Assistance Program is no longer accepting applications, Arizona residents who need help today can still explore housing assistance resources, emergency utility assistance, and nonprofit programs throughout the state.
Gilbert Emergency Rental Assistance Program Entity Map
Gilbert Emergency Rental Assistance Program Eligibility
Historically, applicants generally had to meet the following requirements:
- Residence within Gilbert city limits.
- Financial hardship related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Household income at or below 80 percent of Area Median Income.
- Past due rent or utility obligations.
- Risk of housing instability or eviction.
Federal Funding Award
$7.7 Million
Gilbert received approximately $7.7 million in federal Emergency Rental Assistance funding to help local households impacted by COVID-19.
Gilbert Emergency Rental Assistance Program Benefits
Rental and Utility Assistance
The program provided financial assistance for:
- Past due rent.
- Current and future rent obligations.
- Electric, gas, and utility bills.
- Certain internet expenses.
- Other approved housing costs.
Mortgage and Foreclosure Prevention Resources
Residents also had access to information on mortgage assistance and foreclosure prevention counseling through local nonprofit organizations and state housing programs.
Pro Tip from the Editorial Team: Even though the Gilbert Emergency Rental Assistance Program has ended, renters who receive an eviction notice should contact Arizona 2-1-1, local community action agencies, and legal aid organizations immediately because many emergency assistance programs operate on a first come, first served basis.
Need Help Paying Rent Today?
Search for current Arizona rental assistance and emergency utility programs.
Gilbert Emergency Rental Assistance Program Alternatives
If you need help today, consider these resources:
- Local nonprofit emergency rental assistance programs.
- Arizona Department of Economic Security programs.
- Community action agencies.
- HUD-approved housing counseling agencies.
- Emergency utility assistance and energy assistance programs.
You can also review additional resources at Rent Assistance Programs, Emergency Rental Assistance, Utility Assistance Programs, and Eviction Prevention Resources.
Gilbert Emergency Rental Assistance Program FAQs
Is the Gilbert Emergency Rental Assistance Program still open?
No. The program was a temporary COVID-19 relief initiative and is no longer accepting applications.
Who administered the program?
The Town of Gilbert partnered with organizations, including AZCEND and Save the Family, to distribute assistance.
Did the program help with utility bills?
Yes. Eligible households could receive assistance with certain utility expenses in addition to rent payments.
Can I still apply for LIHWAP water assistance?
No. Arizona’s LIHWAP program has ended after federal funding was exhausted.
Where can I find help now?
Contact local nonprofit agencies, Arizona 2-1-1, community action agencies, and emergency housing providers to learn about currently available assistance programs.
Find Arizona Rental Assistance Programs Available Today
The Gilbert Emergency Rental Assistance Program helped many families remain housed during the pandemic. Although that funding has ended, other community resources and emergency programs may still be available.
- Search for local rent assistance resources.
- Learn about utility assistance options.
- Connect with nonprofit housing providers.
- Discover eviction prevention resources.
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