Hawaiʻi County and partners relaunch emergency rental assistance program

Hawai‘i County has partnered with Neighborhood Place of Puna and the Hawai‘i County Economic Opportunity Council to relaunch the Hawai‘i County Emergency Rental Assistance Program in response to homelessness and housing affordability on the Big Island.

The program is designed to help households that suffered from economic hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic and struggling to pay rent.

Those in need of assistance can apply online or by calling the Hawai‘i County Economic Opportunity Council at 808-298-5566. You can also visit the agency in-person at 47 Rainbow Drive in Hilo.

The emergency rental assistance program is funded through the U.S. Department of Treasury and provides rental assistance payments and housing stability services to eligible households.

“Our emergency rental assistance program helped to keep thousands of our local families housed through COVID, which is why we are so excited to be able to bring it back thanks to our partnership with Neighborhood Place of Puna and the Hawaiʻi County Economic Opportunity Council,” said Hawaiʻi County Mayor Mitch Roth. “We are committed to providing vital assistance to those facing financial hardships, ensuring that they can remain in their homes and maintain stability. Together, we can overcome any obstacles and build a sustainable future for all members of our community.”

For more information about program eligibility and requirements as well as how to apply, click here, call 808-298-5566 or email to Erap2@hceoc.net.