Rockford Increases Rental Assistance Funds to Support Families Displaced by Disasters

In Rockford, Illinois, the local government, including the City of Rockford and Rockford Township, decided to offer more money to help people who must leave their homes because of severe damage, like what happens after a fire or a natural disaster. 

This program, which has been helping folks for 30 years, gives people money to cover a security deposit or the first month’s rent when they have to move to a new place.

Recently, they decided to increase the total money available for this help to $25,000. This decision came about because renting a home has become more expensive, and there have been more fires lately.

Owen Carter, who runs the Health and Human Services Department in the city, mentioned that almost all the people who received help in the past are still living in the homes they moved into with this assistance.

He highlighted how important it is for families who've lost everything through no fault of their own to receive support. The extra money aims to relieve them of the immediate financial burden of finding a new place to live.

Furthermore, Mike Schnaper, an Arson Investigator with the Rockford Fire Department, noted an increase in fires this year, which has left many feeling lost and shocked. The program's increased funds are seen as a way to offer some relief and support during these tough times.

Check out: Understanding Rental Assistance: A Comprehensive Guide

The hope is that with this boost in funding, the program can help even more families get back on their feet after a disaster. This funding is now set to continue through March of 2026.

-

Find programs that help with rent by signing up here