Rent & Utility Assistance

Our Rent & Utility Assistance Program was created to support households struggling to keep up with rising housing costs, utility bills, and everyday necessities. Many families live paycheck to paycheck, and one unexpected hardship, such as illness, job loss, reduced hours, or inflation, can quickly put them at risk of eviction or utility shutoff. Through emergency financial assistance of up to $1,000 per household.

Beginning in Massachusetts in 2026, the program will prioritize families with children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities who meet income eligibility requirements and can provide proof of hardship. Along with direct financial support, the program will also offer financial counseling and housing advocacy to help families regain stability.

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In depth on our Rent & Utility Assistance program

In communities across the USA, thousands of households are cost-burdened and at risk of eviction or utility shutoff. Many families live paycheck to paycheck and face housing insecurity due to unexpected illness, job loss, or inflation.

 

The housing cost burden strongly correlates with risk of both eviction and utility shut‑off. Renters with high housing burdens are more vulnerable to falling behind on all bills and facing eviction or shut‑off

 

Federal and state moratoria during COVID-19 provided temporary relief, but many protections have since expired, increasing vulnerability, especially during heating season when shut‑offs are more likely.

 

The Rent & Utility Assistance program offers emergency financial aid up-to $1000 per household to pay for rent or utility arrears. Our program’s objective is to prevent homelessness and utility shutoffs through direct financial support, financial counseling, and housing advocacy.

 

Recipients income cannot be above the 2026 Federal Poverty Level (150% FPL) income eligibility limit and must have proof of hardship:

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2026 FPL Income Limits

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We will prioritize families with children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. This program will start in 2026 in Massachusetts and will expand to other Cities and States within the United States when enough funding is available.

 

How to Apply:

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Click here to submit an application online.

Testimonies

Read some of our success stories

"I am incredibly grateful for the generous donation I received, which helped me cover my rent during a very difficult time. Due to ongoing health issues, I’ve been facing serious financial strain, and this support eased so much of my burden. I can now focus on my health and recovery with less fear about my next rent payment. Thank you from the bottom of my heart."

KC
Boston, MA

"Receiving rent assistance came at the perfect time for my family. I was behind after losing work hours, and the support helped us stay in our home. The process was respectful, and I felt relieved knowing someone cared."

CJ
Roxbury, MA

"This program helped me avoid eviction when I had nowhere else to turn. The rent assistance gave me enough time to get back on my feet and catch up financially. I’m truly grateful for the help."

KA
Dorchester, MA

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Your donation is tax deductible to a 501 (C) 3 charitable organization. Communitywide donation policy ensures that 85% of your contributions are spent on Programs and only 15% on overheads related to supporting that program. Send your donation by Zelle® to: donors@communitywide.org

Communitywide Charities Inc.
300 Congress Street Suite 313 Quincy, MA 02169-0907

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