The Housing Resource Center
In 2004, COTS began offering a limited Homelessness Prevention Fund that provided emergency, one-time grants to prevent people from losing their housing. As the need grew, the program evolved to keep up with the demand.
This effort led to the creation in October 2008 of the Housing Resource Center (HRC) -- a “one stop shop” for people seeking affordable housing and rental assistance. Low-income households often end up in emergency shelter due to an unforeseen event beyond their control, such as a job loss, unexpected medical bills or a major car repair.
HRC staff identify individuals and families in financial trouble and link them with resources and support before they are evicted or face foreclosure action. They also maintain an ongoing list of housing available for rent and work with a network of more than 50 landlords who rent to COTS clients.
In its first year of operation, the HRC averted homelessness for over 350 households through one-time grants to help with unanticipated expenses and prevent eligible households from eviction or foreclosure.
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