As a result of new guidance issued by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, the city of Portland has streamlined the application process for the Rental Assistance Program.  The city has also increased the amount of assistance available.  The Program is funded with supplemental CDBG funding made available through the federal CARES Act.  The city is partnering with The Opportunity Alliance to help renters in Portland that have been affected by the COVID-19 crisis.  The Program provides up to $1,000. in assistance for a maximum of 3 months, as well as up to $250. in utility assistance.

The new simplified application is available on the city’s website or by emailing the Opportunity Alliance at:  Melissa.Dupree@opportunity alliance.org.

The city’s program is separate from rental assistance programs being offered from the State of Maine/Maine Housing and Cumberland County.  Because the Programs are funded through the same US Department of Housing and HUD Program, federal rules prohibit residents of Portland from accessing funding through the state and country Programs.  The Opportunity Alliance administers all three programs.

For more background information on the original Program, please visit post herein dated July 6, 2020.