Understanding the St. Tammany Parish Rental Assistance Program

The St. Tammany Rental Assistance Program (STRAP) was created to provide emergency financial assistance to renters affected by the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The program was funded through the federal Emergency Rental Assistance initiative and administered by the St. Tammany Parish Government.

Although the program is closed, many residents continue searching for information about eligibility requirements and alternative resources. Understanding how STRAP operated can help renters identify similar programs that may still be available.

Who Qualified for STRAP Assistance?

Before applications closed, households generally needed to meet several eligibility requirements:

• Annual household income at or below 80 percent of Area Median Income.
• Financial hardship caused directly or indirectly by COVID-19.
• Risk of eviction, homelessness, or housing instability.
• Submission of all required supporting documents.
• No duplicate assistance from other federally subsidized rental programs covering the same period.

Alternative Rental Assistance Programs in St. Tammany Parish

Even though STRAP has ended, residents still have several avenues to seek help.

Community Action Agency Services

Residents seeking emergency housing assistance or weatherization services can contact the Community Action Agency offices:

• Slidell Office: (985) 646-2090
• Covington Office: (985) 893-3923

You may also explore additional resources on Louisiana rental assistance programs and search for local emergency aid opportunities.

Editorial Team Tip: Do not wait until you receive an eviction judgment to seek assistance. Many local agencies can provide referrals, legal resources, or emergency funds before a housing crisis becomes more severe.

Additional Programs Administered by the Grants Department

The St. Tammany Parish Grants Department oversees several community programs beyond rental assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions About STRAP

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The Lafayette Emergency Assistance Program receives cash thanks to the federal Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2021. (H.R. 133). This relief package contains $25 billion for emergency assistance with rental costs; out of this total, $7.2 million has been allocated to Lafayette Parish and the communities that are located there.

SMILE Community Action Agency is pleased to be a participant in this program and looks forward to a productive partnership with Lafayette Consolidated Government and Catholic Charities of Acadiana in the effort to assist families in avoiding evictions throughout the entirety of Lafayette Parish. SMILE Community Action Agency is pleased to be a participant in this program and looks forward to a fruitful partnership with Lafayette Consolidated Government and Catholic Charities of Acadiana.

SMILE Community Action Agency is ecstatic to be a part of this initiative and looks forward to its continued involvement. Since its inception in 1968, SMILE has remained dedicated to waging the “War on Poverty,” and our utility and rental assistance programs have remained an integral part of our range of services over these five decades. Since SMILE’s founding, we have helped thousands of people pay their rent and utility bills. In what ways does the program accommodate its participants?

The program will pay up to 12 months’ worth of back rent and utilities for applicants who are eligible for it, and it will also provide up to 3 months’ worth of assistance in the future for candidates who satisfy the standards.

Who is eligible to apply?

If renters in Lafayette, California fulfill all of the requirements listed below, they may be qualified to receive financial assistance through the Lafayette Emergency Assistance Program (LEAP) (LEAP).

Priority is given to households in which at least one member has been unemployed as a direct result of COVID-19 for more than ninety days, as well as to households with an income that is less than fifty percent of the median income for the area. This is required by the law. Additionally, priority is given to households in which at least one member has been unemployed as a direct result of COVID-19 for more than ninety days. Conditions for eligibility and important things to consider

• They are currently eligible for unemployment benefits or have been in the past, or they have experienced a drop in income or other forms of financial hardship as a result of COVID-19.
• They may be able to provide evidence of housing instability, such as rent or utility bills that are overdue or notice of eviction.
• Their combined household income is equal to or less than 80 percent of the median income for the region.
• Landlords can offer assistance to their tenants in the process of applying for this program.

Landlords that want to take part in the program are expected to forgive late fees, penalties, interest, portions of rent that are higher than FMR, and any court expenditures that may be incurred as a result of the tenancy dispute. In addition, after the aid period, the landlord or property manager is prohibited from evicting a tenant for at least ninety days. What is the proper way to apply? The Lafayette Emergency Assistance Program will begin accepting application submissions on Thursday, April 1, 2021. This will mark the beginning of the application process. Applications are available

• Online:
  • www.smilecaa.org
• In-person:
  • Lafayette, Louisiana, 70501 Community Action Agency SMILE 501 St. John Street 337-234-3272 Extension 200 In addition, you can contact us through e-mail at info@smilecaa.org.

Applicants who need assistance in filling out the application have the option of either going to the office of LCG Human Services, which can be found at 111 Shirley Picard Drive, or calling the number 337-291-5450. Renters who live in locations outside of Lafayette Parish have the option of applying for help through the State of Louisiana by going to the website www.lastaterent.com or calling the toll-free number (877) 459-6555.

As rents continue to climb and economic pressures strain household budgets, many Jefferson Parish residents are finding it increasingly difficult to stay housed. Whether you’re dealing with a sudden job loss, medical emergency, or rising utility costs, rental assistance in Jefferson Parish can serve as a critical safety net to help you avoid eviction and maintain housing stability.

This guide provides a detailed overview of available rental assistance programs in Jefferson Parish, LA—including government initiatives, nonprofit services, who qualifies, and how to apply successfully in 2024.

Why Rental Assistance Is Critical in Jefferson Parish

Rising Rent and Economic Insecurity

Over the past several years, Jefferson Parish has seen consistent rent increases that far outpace wage growth, especially in working-class neighborhoods such as Marrero, Harvey, and Kenner. According to Zillow, the average rent in Jefferson Parish increased by 19% between 2020 and 2024, placing a greater burden on already stretched household budgets.

Compounding the issue, many families are still recovering from the long-term economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Eviction protections have expired, emergency aid has diminished, and utility disconnections have resumed—making emergency rental aid in Jefferson Parish more essential than ever.

Who Needs Help the Most

While anyone can experience housing instability, certain populations are more at risk and may be prioritized for aid:

• Low-income renters and families living paycheck to paycheck, especially in high-rent zip codes

• Seniors and disabled residents who rely on fixed incomes or are medically vulnerable

• Families with young children, who face disruption to education and safety during housing instability

• Individuals recently unemployed or underemployed, including those in the service and hospitality sectors

Top Rental Assistance Programs in Jefferson Parish

Here’s a breakdown of the main rental assistance options available to Jefferson Parish residents.

Housing Authority of Jefferson Parish (HAJP)

The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program, managed by HAJP, provides long-term rental subsidies for qualifying low-income households.

• Eligibility: Based on income, family size, and citizenship status.

• What It Covers: A portion of monthly rent is paid directly to landlords on behalf of eligible tenants.

• Waitlist: May open periodically; residents are encouraged to monitor the website for updates.

• Apply at: www.hajp.org

Jefferson Parish Community Development Department

This department oversees emergency rent and utility assistance, especially when federal or state funding (like ERAP) is made available.

• Services: Short-term aid for rent, overdue utilities, and eviction prevention.

• Availability: Dependent on funding cycles—residents are advised to call and check current status.

• Contact: 504-736-6262

Jefferson Community Action Program (JeffCAP)

JeffCAP offers emergency financial support, housing counseling, and more.

• What It Offers:

  • Emergency help for rent, mortgage, and utilities

  • Case management and referrals to other local services

  • Financial literacy and budgeting workshops

• Eligibility: Priority is given to low-income families, seniors, and households with children

• Learn more: Jefferson Parish Official Website

Nonprofit Organizations Offering Rent Help

Several local and regional nonprofits supplement government aid by offering temporary rent assistance, utility support, and housing stabilization services.

Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans

Catholic Charities provides short-term rental assistance, especially for vulnerable populations like immigrants, seniors, and families in crisis.

• Services: Emergency rent help, case management, and housing counseling

• Contact: 504-347-0772

• Website: www.ccano.org

Salvation Army Greater New Orleans

Operating across the metro area, the Salvation Army delivers emergency financial assistance for rent and utilities, alongside holistic support services.

• What’s Included:

  • One-time rent or utility assistance

  • Help with landlord negotiations

  • Case management for long-term stability

• Website: salvationarmyalm.org/nola

How to Apply for Rental Assistance in Jefferson Parish

Required Documents

To streamline the process and prevent delays, prepare the following documents in advance:

• Government-issued ID for all adult household members

• Proof of income (pay stubs, benefits letters, unemployment claims)

• Lease or rent invoice showing the amount owed and payment schedule

• Eviction notice or past-due utility bill, if applicable

Application Steps

Applying successfully involves careful preparation and follow-through:

1. Identify the right program based on your needs (e.g., HAJP for long-term vouchers, JeffCAP for emergency rent help).

2. Visit the appropriate website or call the program office to confirm availability and apply.

3. Submit all documents together to avoid delays.

4. Follow up regularly via phone or email to check your application status.

Processing Times: Some programs may respond within 1–2 weeks, while others (like Section 8) may require placement on a waitlist.

Tips: Stay organized, keep a copy of everything you submit, and write down the names of people you speak with.

Key Research and Data

Here’s a closer look at the housing challenges in Jefferson Parish, based on local and federal sources:

Expert Quotes

“Many families are just one paycheck away from eviction. Rental aid provides a crucial bridge to stability.”
— Lydia Morales, Housing Advocate, JeffCAP

“Jefferson Parish offers more support than most people realize — but you have to know where to look and apply early.”
— Angela Dupree, Case Manager, Catholic Charities

Real-Life Examples

Family in Marrero Receives Rent Support Through JeffCAP

After a sudden layoff, a single mother of two in Marrero was unable to pay rent and facing eviction. Through JeffCAP, she received three months of rent and utility support, plus access to a budgeting workshop that helped her avoid future crises.

Section 8 Success Story in Gretna

An elderly couple in Gretna lived in a deteriorating apartment they could barely afford. After applying through the HAJP, they were approved for a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher, allowing them to move into a safer, more affordable apartment with ongoing subsidy support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is rental assistance still available in Jefferson Parish in 2024?
Yes, though some programs depend on current funding. Contact each agency directly for real-time updates.

Can I apply if I’m already behind on rent?
Yes. Most programs prioritize applicants who are behind or have received eviction notices.

What if I’ve already been evicted?
Some programs offer relocation assistance or shelter referrals. Call 2-1-1 or JeffCAP for emergency options.

Can undocumented immigrants receive assistance?
Yes, many nonprofits such as Catholic Charities assist residents regardless of immigration status.

How long does it take to receive rental funds?
Timeframes vary, but most applicants receive support within 10–30 days if documents are complete.

Helpful Contacts and Links

• Housing Authority of Jefferson Parish (HAJP): www.hajp.org

• JeffCAP and Community Development: www.jeffparish.net

• Catholic Charities of New Orleans: www.ccano.org

• Salvation Army Greater New Orleans: salvationarmyalm.org/nola

• Louisiana 2-1-1 Help Line: www.louisiana211.org

Next Steps: What You Can Do Today

To avoid eviction or worsening financial stress, take these actionable steps:

1. Contact Jefferson Parish Community Development at 504-736-6262 to ask about emergency rental aid.

2. Visit HAJP.org to check the Section 8 waitlist status and voucher program info.

3. Call local nonprofits like Catholic Charities or Salvation Army for immediate short-term assistance.

4. Prepare all documentation now so you can act quickly when openings arise.

5. Call 2-1-1 for personalized referrals to local aid based on your ZIP code and situation.

Residents of Calcasieu Parish who meet the requirements for the Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Program, which is administered by the Human Services Department of the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury, are eligible to receive financial assistance with housing-related expenses like rent and utilities.

Submit your application for the ERP here!

The Department of Human Services was granted $13 million in federal funds in March of 2021, all of which were later utilized in order to provide funding for the program. These funds are a portion of the $308 million that the state of Louisiana received from the United States Department of Treasury in order to assist local residents with a variety of costs associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of these costs include, but are not limited to, rent, rent arrears payments, utilities, home energy costs, and other expenditures that are comparable.

In order for a household to be eligible for consideration for participation in the program, at least one member of the home must meet each of the requirements that are listed below:

• Must be influenced by COVID in some way, either directly or indirectly, and in some way, it must be.
• Must be a resident of the Parish of Calcasieu.
• Must have an annual income that is significantly lower than 80% of the region’s median income in order to qualify.
• Must present evidence that they are at risk of becoming homeless or experiencing housing instability in order to qualify for assistance.

To be considered to have been impacted by the pandemic, the household’s income must have decreased, the household must have incurred significant costs associated with the pandemic, the household must have qualified for unemployment benefits, the household must have incurred significant costs associated with the pandemic, or the household must have experienced severe financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.

If the household wishes to have their income considered at or below 80 percent of the Area Median Income, they are required to provide either their tax returns for the year 2020 or the tax returns for the year 2021. (AMI). According to the number of people living in each family, the AMI for Calcasieu Parish is as follows:

According to the number of people living in each family, the AMI for Calcasieu Parish is as follows:

• One-person dwelling – $36,250
• Two-Person Family – $41,400
• $46,600 for a three-person household
• $51,750 four-person household
• $55,900 for a five-person home
• $60,050 six-person household
• $74,200 seven-person household
• $82,350 for an eight-person family

Submissions can be made online at www.calcasieuparish.gov/era

For more information, call 337-721-4030.