Rent and utility assistance through the Nebraska Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program is being distributed quickly, and anyone in need of assistance is encouraged to apply immediately, the Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA) announced today.
The program, funded by the federal American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, provides financial assistance for past-due and future rent payments and past-due utility and internet payments to income-qualified Nebraskans who experienced financial hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic. Assistance funds remain available but are being distributed quickly. Anyone in need of assistance should apply now. Nearly half of the $48 million program, available in the 91 counties outside of Douglas and Lancaster, has been distributed. Once 75% of the funds are obligated, the remaining funds will be used for the development of affordable housing.
“The ERA program has provided relief and stability to thousands of families across the state, and we’ve obligated over half of the available funding for rent and utility assistance,” said Shannon Harner, executive director of NIFA. “We urge households and landlords who believe they may qualify to apply as soon as possible.”
