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.

Angela Silva

Angela Silva, a dedicated 42-year-old consultant specializing in government housing and rental assistance, hails from Sydney, Australia. She completed her education with a degree in Urban Planning from the University of New South Wales. Angela’s career has been marked by her relentless advocacy for affordable housing solutions, where she has worked extensively with both local governments and international agencies in Asia-Pacific regions. Her initiatives have led to the development of sustainable housing projects that cater to low-income families. Outside of her professional environment, Angela enjoys a peaceful life with her partner and their two adopted dogs, engaging in community gardening and urban sustainability projects.