Buncombe County Commissioners allocate funding for rental assistance

Commissioners approved $1.5 million for Helene Relief, including rental assistance — plus, learn how to apply for rental assistance from Eblen Charities, who has partnered with the City of Asheville to distribute funds.

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Get the details on rental assistance through these various programs.

Photo by @mnierwienski

Earlier this week, Buncombe County Commissioners approved rental assistance funding to residents. So here’s the low down on the distribution — plus, an additional rental assistance program from an Asheville nonprofit.

At the Tuesday, Nov. 19 meeting, the Buncombe County Commission voted to reallocate American Rescue Plan Act Funds to Helene relief, including rental assistance. Commissioners approved distributing $300,000 to Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church and $1.2 million to Buncombe County Economic Services — these entities will administer funds to households at or below 80% AMI to be used for utility bills, fuel, rent + mortgage payments, internet access, and other essential needs. Payments will be disbursed on a rolling basis beginning in December. We’ll share application info when it’s made available.

In the meantime, there’s rental help available for Asheville residents. In late October, the City of Asheville designated $1 million for rental assistance and partnered with Eblen Charities to administer the funds. You can find more information and the application forms on Eblen’s website. The nonprofit also provides assistance with utilities, gasoline, and more.

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