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Find organizations that help with rent and utility assistance, shelters, and housing placements.

 

Sometimes, making ends meet can be difficult for families or individuals. Thankfully, many programs aid families and individuals in need, and several assistance programs in Cincinnati offer emergency housing assistance.

It does not matter if someone is experiencing homelessness or is behind on bills. Below are support services that can lead to a place of self-sufficiency.

 

Table of Contents:

 

This article is as current as the publication date. Readers are encouraged to confirm the information before acting.

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Rent and Utility Assistance

Assistance Programs for renters can help pay their rent, utilities, home energy, and other related costs.

 

Emergency Assistance

 

Hamilton County Senior Utility Assistance and Home Repair Program

513-743-9000
Services:
Provide eligible older adults with a one-time credit for paying their Duke Energy, Greater Cincinnati Water Works utility bill, or assist them with home modification or repairs so they may age in place.
Eligibility: Hamilton County residents age 60 and over, ineligible for other assistance programs, household income 300 percent of poverty.

 

513 Relief

Services: Offers various programs to help families with rent, mortgage, utilities, eviction prevention, broadband assistance, and more. It also operates a mobile bus that directly brings resources and services to needy communities.
Eligibility:
Residents of Hamilton County.

 

Christ’s Community Ministries Rent and Utility Assistance

5819 Salvia Avenue, 45224 (College Hill)
513-541-0303
Days/Hours: Monday through Friday. Call for an appointment.
Services: Financial assistance for rent and utility payments
Other Social Services: Educational sessions, food distribution, a youth summer day camp, and a holiday basket distribution
Eligibility: Resident of ZIP code 45224

 

Freestore Foodbank Stabilization Program

1141 Central Parkway, 45202 (Downtown)
513-482-4500
Days/Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Services: Financial assistance for rent payments once every eighteen months
Other Social Services: A food bank, community meals, and healthcare enrollment
Eligibility: Resident of Hamilton County

 

 

Related Article: Job assistance and workforce development programs in Cincinnati

 

 

Salvation Army Rent and Utility Assistance Program

6381 Center Hill Avenue, 45224 (Hamilton)
513-242-9100
Days/Hours: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Services: Financial assistance for rent and utility payments
Other Social Services: A food bank, clothing, furniture, medical help, and transportation assistance
Eligibility: Resident of the Cincinnati area

 

Society of St. Vincent de Paul Rent and Utility Assistance

1125 Bank Street, 45214 (West End)
513-421-0602
Days/Hours: Call to arrange a home visit
Services: Financial assistance for rent and utility payments
Other Social Services: Furniture, clothing and household items, bus passes for the newly employed, diapers, and more
Eligibility: Resident of Hamilton County, 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guideline, has the notice to leave and eviction notice

 

Strategies to End Homelessness Rent and Utility Assistance

2368 Victory Parkway #600, 45206 (Walnut Hills)
513-381-7233
Days/Hours: Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Services: Financial assistance for rent and loan payments
Other Social Services: Shelter and supportive housing as well as solutions to avoid homelessness
Eligibility: Resident of Hamilton County

 

Madisonville Education Center Rent and Utility Assistance

4600 Erie Avenue, 45227 (Madisonville)
513-271-5501
Days/Hours: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Services: Financial assistance for rent or mortgage, gas, electrical services, and water payments
Other Social Services: An early literacy program, a marketplace for food distribution, and referrals for obtaining important documents
Eligibility: Resident of ZIP codes 45208, 45209, 45226, or 45227. In a household income at or below 175 percent of the Federal Poverty Level

 

 

Related Article: Renting and eviction prevention programs in Cincinnati

 

 

Annunciation Church Immediate Assistance

3547 Clifton Avenue, 45220 (Clifton)
513-708-4235
Days/Hours: Call for an appointment
Services: Financial assistance for rent and utility payments
Other Social Services: Clothing, furniture, and mental health access
Eligibility: Resident of ZIP code 45220

 

Hamilton County Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)

Call United Way 211 or email [email protected] for assistance completing the application and more information.
Services: Assists with paying past-due rent, mortgage, water, sewer, and energy utility bills
Eligibility:
Resident of Hamilton County, household income at or below 80 percent AMI, and an active and accessible email address

*The Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) stopped accepting applications on Tuesday, October 17, 2023. Applications for homeowners are still being accepted.

 

Butler County (SELF)

415 S Monument Avenue, 45011 (Hamilton)
513-868-9300
Days/Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Services: Emergency assistance with rent and utility bills
Eligibility: Total household income less than 50 percent of area median income. Households with one or more members that have been unemployed for at least 90 days

*You may be able to receive rent assistance from SELF by submitting a request for their waiting list. Waiting list request packets can be picked up at either of SELF’s locations or downloaded.

**Please note, as of 3/22/2023, all COVID rent and utility assistance request forms must be filled out BY HAND. This is due to the volume of fraudulent applications received.

 

Clermont County Emergency Relief Assistance

An Emergency Rental Assistance program under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, which does not require COVID-related reasons, runs through September 30, 2025.
Services:  Covers rental payments that are late and overdue, as well as utility payments, including gas, electric, fuel oil, trash removal, and water and sewer.
Eligibility:
Residents of Clermont County under 85 percent of the area median income who have fallen behind on rent and utility payments can get financial help.

 

Warren County Emergency Services

513-695-2238
Services: Assist households facing eviction or a utility disconnect.
Eligibility: Residents of Warren County may receive individualized assistance based on need and available funds; financial assistance varies.

 

 


Utility Assistance

Some organizations in the area offer financial assistance to individuals and families who need help paying their utility bills.

Utility Assistance

 

Duke Energy Financial Assistance

513-569-1850
Services: Financial assistance for Duke Energy bill
Eligibility: Have a household income at or below 250 percent of the federal poverty level & receive natural gas service from Duke Energy Ohio, and have an account registered in their name

 

Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP)

877-384-2575
Services:
Offers households up to a $30 monthly credit to help pay for internet service or cell phone service, a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, tablet, or desktop computer (with a co-payment of more than $10 but less than $50) as well as a low-cost service plan that may be fully covered through the ACP.
Eligibility: Income is 200 percent or less than the Federal Poverty Guidelines if you or your dependent participate in government assistance programs, including SNAP, Medicaid, and WIC, if you already receive a Lifeline benefit.

 

Greater Cincinnati Water District

4747 Spring Grove Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45232
513-586-5917
Days/Hours: Open 24 hours
Services: Financial assistance with water bills.
Eligibility: Resident of Greater Cincinnati.

 

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

513-721-1025
Services: The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) helps Ohioans at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines pay their heating bills.
Eligibility: Maximum Allowable Income and 175 percent Federal Poverty Level (FPL).

 

Winter Crisis Program

513-685-4478
Services: The program offers up to $175 towards households’ utility services. Funding is also available for households with bulk fuel usage.
Eligibility: Applicants applying for the Winter Crisis program must be at or below 175 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, reside in Hamilton County, and provide required documents.

 

Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus (PIPP)

513-685-4478
Services: The Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP) helps eligible Ohioans manage their energy bills year-round, offering households affordable monthly payments that help maintain gas and electric services.
Eligibility: Hamilton County residents with a household income at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines and utility service from an electric or natural gas company regulated by the Public Utility Commission of Ohio are eligible for the program.

 

LifeLine Phone Service

866-488-8719
Services: Offers a free Android with 10GB of data, unlimited talk and text, and free international calling. This does not include a contract or hidden fees.
Eligibility: Participating in government assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, FPHA, etc.

 

Metropolitan Sewer District of Greater Cincinnati Assistance Program 

1081 Woodrow Street, 45204 (Lower Price Hill)
513-244-5101
Days/Hours: Open 24 hours
Services: Financial assistance with sewer bills
Eligibility: 65 or older, own and live in the residence, have a Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) of no more than $36,100.

 

T-Mobile Project 10Million

800-866-2453
Services:  An initiative to provide free internet access and online tutoring to 10 million students. Students can get a free mobile hotspot, a free data plan, and access to low-cost devices such as laptops and tablets.
Eligibility: If you are a parent or guardian who wants to get your child connected with Project 10Million, you can check your child’s eligibility through the National School Lunch Program or other government assistance programs such as SNAP, TANF, FDPIR, CEP, Medicaid, Head Start, or foster youth programs.

 

 


Shelters for Homeless Men, Women, Children, and Families

Several shelters in Cincinnati provide housing solutions to those experiencing homelessness or struggling to afford stable housing.

Emergency Homeless Shelter

 

Ann Louise Inn

2401 Reading Road, 45202 (Mt Auburn)
513-768-6900
Days/Hours: Call for an appointment
Services: Provides safe and affordable housing to women experiencing chronic homelessness. Offers support services to all residents, providing the tools and stability they need for greater self-sufficiency and improved quality of life.
Eligibility: Single Adult Women

 

David & Rebecca Baron Shelterhouse

411 Gest Street, 45203 (Queensgate)
513-721-0643
Days/Hours: Housing Monday through Sunday from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Services: 150 beds, meals, and treatment services
Eligibility: Adult Men

 

Emergency Shelter of Northern Kentucky

436 W 13th Street, 41011 (Covington)
859-291-4555
Day/Hours: Open walk-ins 24 hours
Services: Meals, laundry, shower, clothing, hygiene products, healthcare clinic, free Wi-Fi, computer workstations, cell phone charging, secure storage locker, information, and referral to community resources
Eligibility: Adult Men and Women

 

Esther Marie Hatton Shelterhouse for Women

2499 Reading Road, 45202 (Mt. Auburn)
513-562-1980
Days/Hours: Open walk-ins 24 hours
Services: 60 beds, meals, and health clinics
Eligibility: Adult Women

 

 

Related Article: Free, low-cost, and Medicaid-eligible pharmacy care and health services. 

 

 

Mary Magdalen Homeless Services

1629 Republic Street, 45202 (OTR)
513-721-4811
Days/Hours: Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Services: Showers, restrooms, laundry facilities, phones, persons can also have mail sent here. It does not offer space to sleep.
Eligibility: Adults

 

Welcome House for the Homeless of Northern Kentucky

205 West Pike Street, 41011 (Covington)
859-431-8717
Days/Hours: Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Services: 30 spots for homeless women and children
Other Social Services: Meals, hygiene supplies, and referrals to area resources. It does not offer a place to sleep.
Eligibility: Adult women and children

 

 


Temporary and Transitional Housing for Homeless Men, Women, Youth, and Families

Temporary and transitional shelters provide a short-term safe place to stay and access to support services that can help residents transition to more permanent housing solutions.

Temporary Housing

 

Bethany House Services Shelter

1841 Fairmount Avenue, 45214 (Fairmount)
513-970-1515
Days/Hours: Open walk-ins 24 hours
Services: Emergency shelter, financial assistance in securing affordable housing, and short-term rental assistance
Other Social Services: Financial assistance for security and utility deposits, utility payments, moving costs, and case management
Eligibility: Adults and families

 

Churches Active in Northside Housing (CAIN)

4230 Hamilton Avenue, 45223 (Cumminsville)
513-381-7233
Days/Hours: Monday from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Services: Food pantry. It does not offer a place to sleep.
Eligibility: Resident of ZIP code 45223

 

James Sauls Shelter Temporary Housing for the Homeless

2403 Old Street Route 32, 45103 (Batavia)
513-732-6464
Days/Hours: Open walk-ins 24 hours
Services: Clients can stay up to 45 days with meals and laundry
Eligibility: Adults

 

Lighthouse Youth and Family Services Housing

401 E McMillan Street, 45206 (East Walnut Hills)
513-221-3350
Days/Hours: Walk-ins Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Services: Housing and life coaching
Eligibility: 17-21 years old who are in or aging out of child welfare. 18-24 years old who are homeless

 

Mental Health Access Point Housing

311 Albert Sabin Way, 45229 (Corryville)
513-558-8888
Days/Hours:
Call for an appointment
Services: Medication monitoring, assessment and training in daily living skills, behavior monitoring, supportive services, housing assistance, and 24-hour supervision.
Eligibility: Short-term housing is available for men and women in Hamilton County with a mental health diagnosis who receive case management services. Referrals must come through the Mental Health Access Point at the phone number.

 

Talbert House Housing Services

2600 Victory Parkway, 45206 (Walnut Hills)
513-338-8596
Eligibility:
Call today to determine if you are eligible and learn what options are available. Help is available 24/7 at the phone number listed.
Services: Assists adults, veterans, and families needing housing and other supportive services to maintain independence. Talbert House offers sober, independent living, shelter housing, transitional housing, supportive housing services, and permanent supportive housing.

 

YWCA of Greater Cincinnati Shelters

513-872-9259
Days/Hours: Call for an appointment
Services:
YWCA provides two safe, secure, trauma-informed, confidential shelters for survivors of intimate partner violence.
Other Social Services: Case management, housing placement, work support, group support, safety planning, children’s programming, aftercare services, education, and advocacy.
Eligibility: Survivors of intimate partner violence and their children

 

 


Affordable and Subsidized Housing Placement Services

The following housing placement services may be able to provide housing solutions to low-income families and individuals.

Housing Assistance

 

Cincinnati Metropolitan Housing Authority

1627 Western Avenue, 45214 (West End)
513-721-4580
Days/Hours: Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Services: Facilitates the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) Program and manages affordable housing complexes in Hamilton County.
Eligibility: At or below 80 percent of the area median income

 

Housing Authority of Covington

2300 Madison Avenue, 41014 (Covington)
859-491-5311
Eligibility: At or below 50 percent of the area median income
Days/Hours: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Services: Administers the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) Program and operates several public housing developments in Kenton County.

 

OTR Community Housing Rental Services

114 W 14th Street, 45202 (OTR)
513-381-1171
Days/Hours: Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Services: Affordable housing units in East Clifton, Pendleton, and Over-the-Rhine
Eligibility: At or below 175 percent of the federal poverty level

 

 


Furniture Assistance

The following furniture assistance programs may be able to provide furniture to families and individuals in need who are transitioning from homelessness, escaping domestic violence, or struggling to afford basic household necessities.

Furniture Assistance

 

Habitat for Humanity ReStores

Multiple Locations
513-721-4483
Days/Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Services: Sells donated new and used appliances, furniture, cabinets, building products, and household items
Eligibility: Anyone is eligible

 

New Life Furniture Assistance

11335 Reed Hartman Highway, #134, 45241 (Sharon Woods)
513-313-0530
Days/Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Services: Provides discounted and free furniture and household goods
Eligibility: Receive a referral from a Hamilton County social service

 

The Healing Center Wearhouse

11345 Century Circle W, 45246 (Sharonville)
513-346-4080
Days/Hours: Wednesday through Saturday, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Services: Every other week, as a guest, your household can shop for clothing, household, and personal care items.
Eligibility: Individuals and families in need

 

 

Related Article: Looking for food assistance? These Food Pantries in Cincinnati may help.

 

 

Various resources are available for individuals and families in Cincinnati who are struggling with housing-related issues. Assistance Programs from rent and utility assistance programs to homeless shelters and home repair services, numerous organizations, and government initiatives are dedicated to helping those in need. Cincinnati residents must be aware of these resources and take advantage of them when necessary.

 

 

 

Written by: Crystal Kendrick

 

The Voice of Black Cincinnati is a media company designed to educate, recognize, and create opportunities for African Americans. Want to find local news, events, job postings, scholarships, and a database of local Black-owned businesses? Visit our homepage, explore other articles, subscribe to our newsletter, like our Facebook page, join our Facebook group, and text VOBC to 513-270-3880.

 

Rent and utility assistance image provided by © [WavebreakmediaMicro] /Adobe Stock 

 

 

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4 comments

  1. I need help went my rent I loss my husband and my income went way down my hold life change. My name is Terri Powell and I take care of Grandchildren.

  2. hey my name is nyeashu ricks and i was look for help with rent i was try to see if you would know some places that helps please can you get at me please thank you

  3. Hello Voice Of Black Cincinnati. I am on a Medical Restrictions, so, I am only working 2 days a week & less than 14 hours a week, because of my knees & Heart related issues. I am in need of some immediate financial assistance with my rent. All of the Agencies have put a haul on their funding at this time. Please keep me posted of anyone currently helping pay rent. I have contacted CAA, HCJFS, 513- RELIEF, FREE STORE, ST. VINCENT DE PAUL, OUR DAILY BREAD, SALVATION ARMY, THE CARING PLACE & THE CATHEDRAL CHURCH. These places aren’t currently assisting with rent.

    1. Thank you for visiting our website. Hopefully, one of those locations can refer you to other agencies who can assist.

Comments are closed.