DSS provides comprehensive housing-related services thru direct grants to municipalities and community based agencies. 

Grants for Programs for Homeless

The department funds a number of homeless shelters which provide initial shelter, nutrition and social supportive services. Transitional living programs help to facilitate the movement of homeless people into decent housing and a stable living environment.

Grants for Housing for Homeless With AIDS

The department provides grants to house people with AIDS, and provides grants for their operation.

Rent Bank

This provides assistance in paying rent to low and moderate households who are at risk of becoming homeless or are in imminent danger of eviction or foreclosure.

Assessment and Mediation Program for Families at Risk of Becoming Homeless

This program assists low and moderate income households who are at risk of becoming homeless or losing their homes due to an inability to pay their rent or mortgage. Services include assessment, community based mediation, conflict resolution and use of the rent bank.

Emergency Rental Assistance for TANF Families in Hotels/Motels

The department maintains a fund to help clients pay for emergency housing.

Shelter and Services for Victims of Domestic Violence

The Department contracts with nonprofit groups to provide shelter services to victims of domestic violence and offer community education programs to the general public. Services include emergency shelter, security deposit assistance, counseling, advocacy, a 24-hour hotline and information and referral. DSS provided operating funds for a total of 225 beds in 16 shelters. The department's general fund expenditures reached 1.5 million.

Housing Subsidy and Security Deposit Programs

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Under the scope of the Department’s mission to serve families and individuals who need assistance in maintaining or achieving their full potential for self-direction, self- reliance and independent living, the Housing Services Unit oversees the following housing assistance programs: the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program, the Rental Assistance Program, the Transitionary Rental Assistance Program and the Security Deposit Guarantee Program. The following pages contain a description of each program.

Locating Affordable Housing

How to Apply

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program

Rental Assistance Program (RAP)

Security Deposit Guarantee Program

Transitionary Rental Assistance Program (T-RAP)

Housing Subsidy Contractor and Sub-Contractors