Struggling with rent in St. Louis? Relief is here. The city has launched a $3.3 million rental assistance program to help residents catch up on rent and avoid eviction. Eligible renters can receive up to six months of rent paid, but you’ll need to act fast—the application period runs from December 3 to December 16, and funds are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
The program is backed by federal grants and support from the CARES Act and is part of a citywide effort to keep people housed during difficult times.
Introduction
With housing costs climbing and wages often lagging, thousands of St. Louis residents are behind on rent. In response, the city has created an Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) to stabilize housing for renters at risk of eviction. This limited-time program offers up to six months of rent coverage, giving residents a real shot at getting back on track without the fear of losing their homes.
Emergency Rental Assistance Programs
The City of St. Louis is delivering direct help to renters via a digital application system. Here’s what you need to know:
-
Landlord Cooperation Required: Your landlord must agree to participate in the program for you to receive funds.
-
Covers Rent Only: This program does not pay utility bills or moving expenses—only past-due and current rent.
-
Not Retroactive for Evicted Tenants: You must still reside at the property and be at risk of eviction, not already evicted.
-
Apply Online: Submit your application via the FORWARD Platform between December 3 and December 16.
Need utility help? Try Heat Up St. Louis.
City of St. Louis Programs
The city’s $3.3 million emergency rent fund is aimed at renters currently behind on payments. Here’s how it works:
-
Eligibility: All adults on the lease must meet income and documentation requirements.
-
Multilingual Access: The FORWARD portal is available in 68 languages for broader accessibility.
-
Rent Only: Assistance does not include utilities—apply separately through local aid programs.
St. Louis County Programs
St. Louis County also offers rental aid that mirrors the city’s initiative with some unique elements:
-
Timeline: Application window is identical—December 3–16.
-
Fees Included: Rent arrears and late fees are covered, but utility bills are not.
-
Landlord Participation Required: As with the city program, renters cannot apply without landlord involvement.
Missouri Department of Mental Health Assistance
Statewide assistance is coordinated through the Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC). They manage:
-
Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) funds that support rent aid and homelessness prevention
-
Partnerships with agencies that provide housing and mental health support
-
Administration of the Missouri Housing Trust Fund, which assists with housing stabilization services
Overview of Programs
In addition to the city’s rental assistance, these housing programs provide additional relief:
-
Mortgage Assistance Programs for homeowners facing foreclosure
-
ERA 2.0 for St. Louis County residents needing rent and utility support
-
Community Action Agency of St. Louis County (CAASTLC) for rent, utility, and food support
-
General aid and direct cash support for eligible residents
One-Time Assistance
For renters needing a single boost to stay afloat, one-time support is available:
-
Qualifications: Risk of eviction or housing instability and income requirements must be met.
-
Apply via FORWARD: The FORWARD portal allows applications in multiple languages.
-
What’s Covered: Past-due and upcoming rent payments, plus select housing costs.
Resources Beyond Rental Assistance
Many residents need more than just rent help. These resources offer utility aid, food support, and legal assistance to help maintain long-term stability.
Financial Resources
Consider these key financial facts and program features:
-
More than 35,000 St. Louis households spend over 30% of their income on rent (HUD).
-
The rental program prioritizes those earning 50% or less of Area Median Income (AMI).
-
The FORWARD Platform offers application assistance in 68 languages, making it accessible for all.
Legal Resources
Facing eviction or landlord disputes? These organizations can help:
-
Legal Services of Eastern Missouri: Free legal aid for housing issues and tenant rights
-
St. Francis Community Services: Mediation and legal help for renters and immigrants
-
Volunteer Lawyers Program – Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis: Pro bono representation for tenants in need
Food Assistance
You don’t have to choose between rent and food. These organizations help bridge the gap:
-
St. Louis Area Foodbank: Pantry locator and free meal access
-
Operation Food Search: Meal distribution for children and families
-
Missouri Department of Social Services – SNAP: Apply for food stamps (EBT)
-
Community Action Agency of St. Louis County: Bundled aid for rent, food, and energy bills
Eviction Protections
The ERAP was created to stop evictions before they happen. Here’s how the protection works:
-
Coverage of Up to 18 Months of rent, within 150% of Fair Market Rent (FMR)
-
Priority for Households at 80% or less of AMI, with priority for those under 50%
-
Administered through federal grants and the CARES Act
St. Patrick Center’s Housing First Initiative
St. Patrick Center takes a unique approach through its Housing First model, which combines stable housing with critical life services.
-
Behavioral Health & Job Support: Services include counseling, case management, and workforce readiness.
-
Job Readiness Training: Helps participants craft resumes, practice interviews, and land employment.
-
In-Person Only: No online or phone-based intake; must visit their downtown St. Louis location directly.
Program Overview
Here’s what makes the Housing First initiative stand out:
-
Designed for long-term housing stability—not just emergency relief
-
Integrated with other community services and employment training
-
Offers wraparound support for mental health, life skills, and employment
Services Offered
The Center goes far beyond rent assistance by offering:
-
HUD-Certified Housing Counseling
-
Behavioral Health Services
-
Employment Placement Support
-
Access to housing assistance through the FORWARD application system
Renter Assistance in St. Louis Park, MN
Meanwhile, in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, tenants receive added legal protection through mandatory pre-eviction notices:
-
30-Day Notice Rule: Landlords must notify tenants 30 days before filing for eviction.
-
Detailed Statement Required: Includes balance due, fees, and payment deadline.
-
Official Notice Form: Must use a city-approved form to proceed legally.
Financial Support Options
While programs differ slightly by region, many elements are similar:
-
Document Requirements: Lease, proof of hardship, and landlord cooperation needed.
-
Rent-Only Coverage: No assistance for utilities or moving expenses.
-
Eligibility Based on Income: Focused on residents facing documented financial hardship.
Legal Support Options
St. Louis Park tenants have multiple legal aid channels:
-
LawHelpMN.org: Legal resources and tenant rights information
-
Tenant Resource Center – Hennepin County: Mediation, legal help, and support for renters
-
Volunteer Lawyers Network: Connects tenants with free legal support
In Conclusion…
Securing safe and stable housing is a fundamental need—and with St. Louis offering substantial rental assistance, now is the time to act. Whether you’re months behind on rent or just starting to feel the financial strain, this program offers a real chance to reset.
Take the first step today, gather your documents, and apply early. With limited funding and a narrow application window, your future home security could depend on the actions you take right now.
What’s Next?
Don’t miss out—here’s how to take advantage of this vital rental assistance program:
-
Apply through the FORWARD portal beginning December 3.
-
Check your eligibility by comparing your income to the AMI levels.
-
Prepare documents: Lease, ID, income proof, landlord contact info.
-
Contact your landlord to confirm they will participate.
-
Use resources like Heat Up St. Louis or CAASTLC for utility support.
-
Reach out to St. Patrick Center if you need deeper housing or job help.
-
Apply early: Funding is limited and will run out quickly!
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.